Associate Minister of Agriculture Andrew Hoggard said the government has reinstated the trade of livestock exports by sea while ensuring the highest animal welfare standards.
The Government will introduce legislation changes to reinstate the trade, enhance oversight, and strengthen requirements for exporters to identify risks and manage the welfare of livestock exported by sea.
Minister Hoggard said the government was committed to ensuring the highest animal welfare standards when the trade was reinstated.
“We will amend the Animal Welfare Act 1999 to ensure exporters effectively manage animal welfare outcomes throughout the supply chain,” said Hoggard.
“Changes to the Animal Welfare Act are only a part of that. While we progress legislation, we will continue to engage with experts in the industry and key animal welfare voices around operational details to understand how to ensure high animal welfare outcomes best while exporting livestock by sea.”
He added that this was a specialised trade, so testing details with those involved in the live export-by-sea system was necessary. This would inform decisions on regulations and standards.
A discussion document will be released next year so that the public can comment on these proposals.
“Reinstating livestock exports by sea will provide farmers additional export and income opportunities, benefiting New Zealand’s economy and rural communities.”
The export of livestock by sea has contributed to New Zealand’s economic prosperity, and the trade was worth NZD 374 million in 2022.
“Our trading partners value our livestock and support improving their food security goals.”
New Zealand stopped exporting livestock for slaughter in 2007, and Hoggard assured that this would not change.
Targeted engagement on technical and operational details will occur during November and December. The public will have the opportunity to comment on any legislative proposals when a Bill is considered by the Select Committee in 2025.
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