April 14, 2021 6:57 pm
The New Zealand government has announced that the export of livestock by sea will cease following a transition period of up to two years.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said that “at the heart” of the decision is upholding New Zealand’s “reputation for high standards of animal welfare”.
“We must stay ahead of the curve in a world where animal welfare is under increasing scrutiny,” the minister said.
“This decision will affect some farmers, exporters, and importers and a transition period will enable the sector to adapt.”
Live exports by sea represent approximately 0.2% of New Zealand’s primary sector exports revenue since 2015.