Follow the steps
There are 5 steps to exporting meat. They don't have to be done in any particular order, or by the same person or company. It is the exporter's responsibility to ensure all requirements have been met before the meat is exported.
1. Meet New Zealand requirements
Find out about New Zealand requirements for export meat.
2. Check destination market requirements
Check if there's export access to your preferred market, and what the rules are to export there. Some markets have much higher compliance requirements and costs.
Check destination market requirements
3. Register as an exporter
To export meat from New Zealand, you need to register as an exporter with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) or use the services of a registered exporter.
4. Register for Animal Products E-cert
Find out how to apply for access to Animal Products E-cert to track export meat production and apply for official assurance.
Register for Animal Products E-cert
5. Apply for a meat export certificate
Not all markets require an export certificate or official assurance – if you need it you'll apply through E-Cert.
Apply for a meat export certificate
Other requirements
You may also have to meet other requirements, including those set by government agencies like the New Zealand Customs Service.
Export clearance procedures – New Zealand Customs Service
Storage and transport requirements
Export non-conformance
If your meat export is stopped at the border or no longer meets export requirements, you must tell MPI within 24 hours.
Find out more about export non-conformances
Who to contact
If you have questions about exporting, email exporterhelp@mpi.govt.nz
