New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is the government’s national economic development agency. We work to stimulate economic growth by helping to boost export earnings, strengthening regional economies, and delivering economic development assistance to industries and individual businesses. As a global organisation, we use our knowledge and contacts in overseas markets to connect New Zealand businesses with trade and investment opportunities.

New Zealand’s historical focus on agriculture and food production, its pristine environment, and wealth of unique resources have combined to create a lucrative and growing natural health and nutraceuticals sector.

From harnessing the antibacterial properties of manuka honey, to research and development that has identified a non calorific natural sweetener, the country has a long track record of identifying and exploiting the medicinal and nutritional uses of natural products.

Exports include mussel extract powder, marine oils, natural honey products, deer velvet, skincare, botanical and dairy products.

New Zealand’s natural products export industry is estimated to be worth around NZ$500 million annually and growing, with major markets already established in Asia and North America, and a developing presence in Europe. Stringent processing and food export regulations, and a commitment to maintaining New Zealand’s world leading animal health status, underpin the expanding sector.