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About this guidance

This page should be read together with its companion page: Importing food intended for export

Exporting imported food for overseas markets should be viewed as a single process because some export requirements start during import. Decisions made when the product arrives in New Zealand can affect its eligibility for export later. The product must be imported, inspected, documented, and handled correctly from the time it enters New Zealand.

To export imported food successfully, you must meet both New Zealand's import requirements and the requirements of your destination market.

Read both pages before you start to understand your responsibilities and the requirements across the import and export process.

Plan ahead if you want to export imported food

If you intend to export imported food, it is important to plan for export requirements before the product arrives in New Zealand.

While you may have been allowed to import a product into New Zealand, that does not guarantee approval for export to all markets.

You'll need to check the export requirements for all your imported products or ingredients. The requirements you must meet will vary, depending on the destination market or country. Many export requirements begin during import. To remain eligible for export, a product needs to:

  • obtain and retain import documentation
  • meet New Zealand import requirements
  • undergo any required inspections
  • be traceable from the time it arrives in New Zealand
  • be handled, stored, and transported within an approved supply chain.

Who should read this guidance

The guidance on this webpage is for:

  • exporters of food that use imported products or ingredients
  • businesses that import food and then export it themselves.

Your responsibilities will vary depending on your role

Your requirements will vary depending on whether you are acting solely as the exporter or importer, or as both.

If you are importing and exporting the product yourself, you will be responsible for ensuring the product meets all import and export requirements.

If another business is importing the product, work with them before the product arrives in New Zealand. Some requirements needed for export certification must be completed during the import process.

Follow these steps

Export non-conformance

Import and re-export requirements still apply, if your animal product has been:

  • returned to New Zealand due to an export non-conformance, or
  • sent back from an overseas market.

Find out more about export non-conformances

How to get help

We have 2 dedicated teams that can help answer your questions.

For advice about meeting food export requirements, contact Exporter Help

For help understanding food safety requirements for imported food, contact the Food Importer Advice team