New Zealand seeking clarification as China suspends some seafood exports

WELLINGTON: New Zealand said on Wednesday (Feb 10) that it was urgently seeking clarification from Chinese authorities after being informed that exports from two of its seafood facilities have been suspended. Exports from a Sanford facility that processes mussels and Sealord Group facility that processes finfish and fishmeal for animal feeds were suspended, New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) said in a statement. Both facilities were subject to live video audits by Chinese customs in late January but they were only advised of the findings and suspensions on Monday, MPI said. "This issue does not relate to COVID-19 transmission, but concerns matters raised following an audit of two processing premises," said Julie Collins, Deputy Director-General Policy & Trade at MPI. New Zealand has taken strong measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and does not have community transmission, Collins said. "This includes our strong hygiene measures put in place by food ...