News

New Zealand has long been a hub for innovation, but when it comes to launching new plant and animal products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, our approval system is slowing us down. BusinessNZ is backing Animal and Plant Health NZ's call for a modern, efficient approval process that unlocks greater economic potential for the primary sector and beyond.

Chief Executive Katherine Rich highlights a key concern: our current system is too slow, too costly and too uncertain. Global companies often find it difficult to bring new products to New Zealand due to excessive red tape, making innovation a costly and time-consuming process. Some applications take more than four years to get approval - even for products that have been safely used overseas for a decade. 

Whether it's gaining approval from the Environmental Protection Authority for innovative agricultural solutions or Medsafe for life-changing medical advancements, we need a system that encourages innovation. A more efficient process will ensure that New Zealand remains an attractive destination for businesses looking to launch new products, ultimately benefitting our economy and industries. 

BusinessNZ, alongside other organisations, has co-signed a letter to Ministers in support of the Ministry for Regulations review of the agricultural and horticultural product approval process. BusinessNZ expects to hear more in the coming weeks and hopes the review will lead to meaningful improvements that support innovation while maintaining high regulatory standards.