Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate tariffs, but they don't guarantee that exporting will be straightforward or commercially viable. Product standards, certification, testing requirements and border procedures can significantly affect the cost, timing and value of an export opportunity.
Several Canterbury exporters have recently encountered unexpected non-tariff barriers, including large volumes of manually signed documentation, requests to alter official product classifications, and requirements to host overseas inspectors at considerable expense. These issues can quickly erode the benefits gained through tariff reductions.
If you encounter a trade barrier, the first step is to contact Trade Barriers NZ, a government service that helps businesses identify, navigate and escalate market access issues. Enquiries are directed to the agency best placed to assist, including MFAT, NZ Customs, MPI and MBIE (Trade Barriers) (New Zealand Foreign Affairs & Trade).
Businesses can also access support through NZTE, whose in-market teams and expert beachheads can provide practical guidance on local regulations, certification requirements, customs procedures and market-specific challenges (New Zealand Trade & Enterprise - Home) (New Zealand Trade & Enterprise - FAQ's).
However, as a Business Canterbury member we can help navigate this for you.
Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) are rules or processes other than tariffs that make exporting slower, harder or more expensive.
Examples include:
Many of these measures serve legitimate purposes, such as protecting consumer safety, food security or the environment. However, they can also create delays, duplication, uncertainty and significant additional costs.
Even when an FTA reduces tariffs to zero, exporters must still comply with the importing country's regulations.
Additional costs may include:
These costs can materially alter pricing, delivery timelines and competitiveness.
Most countries apply some form of non-tariff measures. Examples include:
Before finalising pricing or delivery commitments, ask:
Understanding these requirements early can prevent costly surprises later.
If you are facing unexpected certification requirements, repeated testing, customs delays, inconsistent border decisions, documentation challenges or unclear import regulations, let us know.
What appears to be an isolated issue may be affecting multiple Canterbury exporters. By understanding the issues businesses are encountering, we can help connect you with the appropriate support agencies, identify common challenges across sectors and, where appropriate, assist in escalating issues through the relevant government channels.
The earlier a problem is identified, the greater the opportunity to resolve it before it impacts sales, profitability or market access.