Until April 2023, New Zealand regularly exported live cattle by sea — particularly to China to support dairy herd development — but this practice was banned by the previous Labour government due to mounting animal welfare concerns. Industry representatives argue that live exports can help meet protein demand in Southeast Asian markets and have been a valued avenue for high-genetics livestock, but the ban removed a long-standing pathway for livestock trade.

The industry’s chief executive of Livestock Exports NZ says the prolonged uncertainty is making it difficult for farmers to make long-term decisions about herd management and breeding cycles, which need six to 12 months of advance planning. Even if new legislation to restart the trade is passed, exporters warn that infrastructure and operational readiness will require significant lead time.

Government officials emphasize that any return to live exports would only occur with stringent “gold standard” animal welfare protocols, though details are still being negotiated. The Associate Minister of Agriculture has acknowledged that the development of clear, high-welfare export standards has taken longer than anticipated, and the sector is eagerly awaiting definitive timelines and regulatory guidance.