Zespri hails Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and the EU

Zespri™ has welcomed the signing of the free trade agreement between New Zealand and the European Union, highlighting the significant benefits it offers to businesses, consumers and communities in both countries. The agreement includes the elimination of tariffs on kiwifruit exports from New Zealand to the EU, once it enters into force.

Zespri™ paid around $46.5 million in tariffs on sales of more than $1 billion in the EU last season, making it one of the biggest markets for the company.

President of Zespri™, Bruce Cameron, said that the agreement will help Zespri™ to meet the growing demand for its fruit in Europe: “This is a strong commitment for a wide range of exporters, including the New Zealand kiwifruit industry, and we are very pleased to see it finalized. The FTA will allow us to increase our exports to Europe, bringing the highest quality Zespri™ kiwifruit to more consumers and helping to generate solid income for our growers.”

Zespri has partnered with growers in Italy, France and Greece to establish a 12-month supply.