Assessing the impacts on trade from the Iranian conflict
Since the conflict with Iran began on 28 February 2026, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has been working closely with food and fibre sector exporters to assess impacts on trade and provide support.
We’ve been talking daily to food and fibre sector businesses and groups about the conflict and where we can provide practical assistance for exporters.
We're also working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), and other agencies to monitor and respond to trade impacts.
New Zealand's fuel stocks are being monitored
The Government has established a ministerial oversight group to monitor key issues, including fuel supply and supply chains.
Ministerial group to oversee fuel security – Beehive
Assessment of fuel supplies
MBIE is actively assessing the fuel security situation for New Zealand during the conflict. It has convened the Fuel Sector Coordinating Entity under the National Fuel Plan to increase oversight of fuel imports.
Middle East conflict and New Zealand's fuel stocks – MBIE
New Zealand fuel response framework
On March 27, the Government announced a 4-phase fuel management framework. The framework sets out 4 phases that show how fuel is monitored and the actions New Zealand will take if supply conditions change.
New Zealand is currently at Phase 1 of the framework (normal supply). MBIE reports that fuel supplies remain healthy, with good levels of fuel in New Zealand and more on the way. Fuel importers have reported no issues with incoming shipments.
Changes in phases will be made by the Fuel Security Ministerial Group.
Fuel plan to protect economy amid disruption – Beehive
Fuel management framework – MBIE
Trade and economic implications
MFAT has released a report on the trade and economic implications from the conflict and is working closely with its posts and its overseas counterparts.
Trade and economic implications of the Iran conflict – MFAT
Redirecting export consignments
The conflict in the Middle East has caused transport disruption for some food and fibre sector exports.
MPI is providing certification and official assurances to exporters to ensure their shipments can be safely redirected to alternative markets or returned to New Zealand.
MPI has issued guidance to sector exporters to help them with this process.
For general queries, exporters can email our trade team directly at tradeandinternationalrelations@mpi.govt.nz
For queries about specific consignments, refer to our guidance document F09/26.
F09/26: Certificate Revocation, Replacement, and Returning NZ Product [PDF, 256 KB]
Monitoring fertiliser supplies
The government is also monitoring fertiliser availability and prices.
While no concerns have been raised about the availability of fertiliser for immediate needs, MPI encourages farmers and growers to think ahead, plan early, and talk with their fertiliser supplier or sector organisations for advice.
Information from fertiliser companies
Latest news: Update on impact of conflict in Middle East on fertiliser – Ballance Agri-Nutrients
