New Zealand has pledged to boost exports of high-quality, reliable halal meat products to Malaysia after the two nations updated their halal implementation arrangement.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reaffirmed that New Zealand will continue to be a dependable partner for Malaysia by ensuring open and stable supply chains.
Luxon also promised clear regulations and swift resolution of trade-related issues. To support this, New Zealand will implement data-driven logistics and expedite customs clearance for trusted traders under the newly established Customs Mutual Recognition Arrangement.
“Streamlined settings, strong communication, and effective regulatory oversight are practical examples of how we will build certainty together,” Luxon said at the Halal Diplomacy Event.
The event was also attended by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
New Zealand initially declared its plan to expand halal meat exports to Malaysia in July. During his visit to Kuala Lumpur on the second day of the ASEAN East Asia Summit, Luxon described the halal agreement as ‘really important.’
Luxon stated that New Zealand will work to improve halal standards and certification under the new arrangement. The updated halal implementing framework introduces clearer guidelines for registration, documentation, processing, labeling, and storage. Through this agreement, New Zealand aims to diversify and expand its range of halal products. Additionally, the country plans to utilize Malaysia–New Zealand trade initiatives, such as the Malaysia International Halal Showcase in 2026, to access new markets.
Luxon expects the new arrangement to strengthen the resilience and reliability of New Zealand’s halal products. Luxon and Ahmad Zahid witnessed the exchange of the halal implementing arrangement on Tuesday.
The exchange was carried out by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia Director-General, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, and New Zealand High Commissioner Mike Walsh.
In September 2024, both nations pledged to boost bilateral trade by 50% by the year 2030.
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