The Changing Global Trade Environment: NZ – UK Free Trade Agreement

Domestic Environmental and Climate Policy Impacts on the NZ – UK Free Trade Agreement

Implications for New Zealand’s Primary Sector Economy

This paper examines the impact of domestic environmental and climate policies on the NZ-UK Free Trade Agreement (NZ-UK FTA) and their implications for New Zealand’s primary sector economy - DOWNLOAD PAPER >

This paper compares the respective domestic policies of the parties to the NZ-UK Free Trade Agreement (NZ-UK FTA) in key environmental areas, including emissions reductions, soil and water quality improvements, and biodiversity protection. 

The paper explores the material differences that exist between the policy objectives of the two governments in these areas. It also seeks to determine what potential risks or effects these might hold for the trade relationship between the two countries, including those that might impact the NZ-UK FTA or that might be exacerbated by various commitments included in the FTA.

As a country richly endowed with biocapacity, and as a remotely located, relatively low-volume producer of primary products, it is increasingly in New Zealand’s interest to pursue shares of relatively high-value markets. This demands sustainable practices on the part of producers, in alignment with global consumer trends. Such practices include organic production.

Implementing these practices can enhance the competitiveness and resilience of New Zealand producers, drive innovation, and support sustainable resource use in primary production sectors.