Winemakers in New Zealand have welcomed a free trade agreement between the UK and New Zealand which eliminates tariffs on exports.
Sarah Wilson, GM of advocacy and general counsel at New Zealand Winegrowers, said the decision is “very positive” for the New Zealand wine industry.
“The agreement will more closely align the winemaking standards across the two countries, and help reduce technical barriers to trade, by minimising burdens from certification and labelling requirements on New Zealand wine exports.”
The UK is New Zealand’s second-largest export market for wine, valued at more than NZ$470 million last year.
“This agreement is especially significant at a time when we are facing increasing costs across the industry, and it will make a big difference for those who export to the UK market,” said Wilson.
The agreement will take effect at the end of this month.
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