Reindeer husbandry: frozen velvet exports from New Zealand to China will resume

MPI and Chinese customs authorities have reached an agreement to resume frozen velvet exports from New Zealand to the Chinese market. Photo / New Zealand deer industry

An agreement was concluded between Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) and ChinaRussian Customs Authorities (GACC) resume work New Zealand exports frozen deer velvet to valuable Chinese market – takes effect immediately.

Deer Industry New Zealand chief executive Rhys Griffiths said it was a “good result” for the industry.

“This gives confidence that trading in our largest velvet export market can continue this season,” he said.

“Our farmers and exporters can now get to work knowing that New Zealand velvet has a path to the Chinese market.”

Griffiths and Deer Velvet Access Group project manager Damon Paling were in China last week where they spoke to importers about their operational readiness, including relevant government approvals, to ensure clearance at the end.