Media release
Natural Health Products NZ
08 May 2024

Therapeutic Products Act repeal means export exemption more urgent than ever

The industry body for the natural health products sector, Natural Health Products NZ,
says the repeal of the Therapeutic Products Act means urgent Ministerial action is
needed to exempt the sector from New Zealand’s outdated export restrictions.

“While the TPA made some important improvements, it was overly bureaucratic and
costly to comply with,” said Samantha Gray from Natural Health Products NZ.

“However, we are concerned that a full repeal and replacement means this problem
will drag on for years. New Zealand exporters cannot wait that long.

“The need for action is urgent. New Zealand’s own outdated regulations mean our
exporters are at a competitive disadvantage internationally and are essentially blocked
from exporting to some markets.

“With the right suite of regulations in place our members estimate exports could
roughly double. The industry currently exports more than $650 million of therapeutic
products every year and employs thousands of New Zealanders.

“We look forward to working with the Minister on the TPA’s replacement but in advance
of this our sector needs an export exemption that will allow New Zealand exporters to
sell our products to the world on an equal footing with our competitors.

“It’s important the Minister acts with urgency to provide this export exemption.”
ENDS

Natural Health Products NZ is the peak industry body representing around 80% of the
sector whose members range from small businesses to companies employing
thousands of New Zealanders, across manufacturing, distribution, research and
retail. Our members include New Zealand’s most trusted natural health products
suppliers and brands. The industry turns over $2.3billion, exports in excess of
$650million.

Contact: Samantha Gray, 021 119 7226

Download PDF: MEDIA RELEASE: Therapeutic Products Act repeal means export exemption more urgent than ever