Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is making common-sense changes to get innovative agricultural products to farmers and growers faster, while maintaining New Zealand’s high standards, says Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard.
“For too long, farmers, growers, and manufacturers have faced delays and costs getting access to new agricultural compounds and veterinary medicines.”
“That means New Zealand can miss out on products that lift productivity, reduce environmental impacts, and keep our primary sector competitive.
“If a product is safe, effective, and meets New Zealand’s requirements, we shouldn’t be making people jump through more hoops than necessary.”
Today, the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Amendment Bill passed its final reading, making the approvals system simpler, faster, and easier to use.
“This could mean dairy farmers getting new animal treatments sooner, growers accessing more targeted crop protection, and farmers adopting products that reduce nutrient losses, lower emissions, or improve resource efficiency.
“For manufacturers, it means spending less time navigating regulatory hurdles and more time investing in new products and technologies for New Zealand’s primary sector.”
The Bill:
streamlines approval pathways so they match the level of risk.
enables greater use of assessments made by trusted overseas regulators to avoid duplication and make better use of international science.
modernises public notification and regulatory processes.
improves manufacturing oversight through a Good Manufacturing Practice scheme; and
clarifies technical provisions so applicants can more easily understand what’s expected of them.
“New Zealand-specific risks will still be assessed. Public health, animal welfare, agricultural security, and our export reputation remain protected.”
“We are not cutting corners, we’re cutting duplication.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/23/fewer-hoops-to-get-innovative-agchems-to-farmers-and-growers/