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The country listing process

Your premises may need to be added to a country list so that you can export to some countries. This will depend on the market and product. To apply, you will need to:

  • check the destination requirements for your chosen market and product
  • contact your verifier
  • fill out an application form
  • get your premises checked.

The country listing application process for some markets can take a long time. It is a good idea to start the application process as early as possible because it could take many months. Verifiers can provide guidance on typical time frames.

Remember, as well as country listing requirements, there are other requirements you need to meet before you can export. This includes meeting New Zealand food safety standards and requirements set by overseas markets.

Find out about meeting New Zealand standards

Find out about export requirements

How to check destination market requirements

Requirements are different for each market or product. These are specified in overseas market access requirements (OMARs). There is a different OMAR for each country.

For some countries or markets, you need to get your premises approved. This will be stated in the OMAR. Approved premises appear on a country list.

Search OMARs by country/market: animal products, wine, and organics

You need to apply for access to view OMAR documents. Access is given only to people involved directly with exports from New Zealand.

Request or amend access animal product OMARs

Subscribe to OMAR updates

Information in OMARs changes regularly. Subscribe to updates to follow any changes to your market requirements. The subscribing category for OMARs is "Animal products exports (including dairy)".

Get exporting email updates

Follow the steps to get a country listing

After you have checked the destination requirements for your market, you'll need to follow 3 more steps. Remember, getting a country listing can take a long time, so start as early as possible.

1. Contact your verifier

You will need a verifier to get a country listing for your premises. Your verifier will audit your premises to confirm they meet the market's listing requirements. They can also help with any questions you have relating to the listing application process.

2. Complete your application

Complete the application form for your product, or the market you want to export to. Your OMAR documents will tell you what application forms you need.

Export premises country listing application forms

3. Get your form and premises checked by a verifier

Get your verifier to endorse your form. Your verifier will also need to audit your premises. After you apply, your verifier might need to do more auditing. They will notify you if more audits are needed.

Once your verifier has endorsed your form, they will submit your application to MPI's market access team.

After your application is submitted 

For some markets or countries, MPI manages the listing. This means that MPI can approve a listing without waiting for a response from the overseas market. We'll let you know when your listing has been approved.

But if MPI doesn't manage the listing for your market, we'll process your application and then contact the country you want to export to. We’ll tell you when the overseas market:

  • has been informed of your application
  • gives its approval.

Who to contact

If you have questions about country listings:

MPI business units