NZ SPECIALITY CHEESEMAKERS CALL ON THE GOVERNMENT TO ‘PLAY FAIR’ IN EU TRADE NEGOTIATIONS

July 2020

For Immediate Release

New Zealand’s Specialist Cheesemakers are calling on the government to support local speciality cheesemakers and regional jobs during free trade negotiations with the EU.

The New Zealand Specialist Cheesemakers Association (NZSCA) is concerned cheese is being forgotten in the EU free trade agreement negotiations.

NZSCA Trade and Tariff Working Group spokesperson Simon Berry – Managing Director of Whitestone Cheese Co - says New Zealand speciality cheeses are forced to compete on an unequal footing with cheese produced and exported from EU member countries, made with EU government subsidies and sold in New Zealand.  

It’s shocking that in New Zealand - a country hailed for its sustainable farming practices, famed for its rich, sweet milk and its speciality cheeses which are recognised globally for their quality - the number one selling cheese in the country is imported from the EU! 

While that cheese made with EU subsidies arrives in New Zealand tariff-free, New Zealand made speciality cheese exported to the EU is slugged with a 40% tariff. Yet there is no reciprocal tariff when EU cheeses are imported into New Zealand for sale.

He says NZSCA members are adamant these issues must be addressed in NZ government negotiations with the EU to develop a free trade agreement.

Cheesemakers are also concerned any agreement could make it easier for EU cheesemakers to dump excess cheese produced with subsidies in New Zealand - further undercutting New Zealand made cheese.

Mr Berry says like all businesses New Zealand speciality cheesemakers are facing uncertain times and they need a long-term sustainable cheese trade policy.

“The government must provide certainty by developing and articulating a clear policy which puts New Zealand speciality cheesemakers first. EU farmers and cheesemakers receive subsidies while in New Zealand regulation and compliance costs are among the most costly in the world and cheesemakers don’t receive subsidies.

A thriving cheese industry is vital for a strong New Zealand economy. Cheesemakers support farmers by buying milk, provide regional training and employment opportunities and generate income in small communities. Additionally a thriving cheese industry supports New Zealand’s food security.”

New Zealand Specialist Cheesemakers Association (NZSCA) represents the country’s boutique and large cheesemakers, helping them improve cheese quality and grow sales. Since 2003 the NZSCA has run the New Zealand Champions of Cheese Awards.

ENDS.

For more information please contact: 
Nicola McConnell, Marvellous Marketing Nicola@marvellousmarketing.co.nz 027 218 8120