Market
Fresh Red Globe table grapes in New Zealand sit within a broader fresh table-grape market that is strongly import-dependent. Market access and border clearance are governed by New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) import health standards (IHS) for fresh table grapes (Vitis spp.) and related fresh-produce importing steps. Imports are sourced from multiple partner countries and are subject to phytosanitary certification and on-arrival biosecurity inspection. As a result, continuity of supply is shaped as much by compliance (pest, documentation, packaging) as by commercial sourcing decisions.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer market)
Domestic RoleDomestic consumption market primarily supplied by imports; limited export volumes relative to imports (HS 080610).
Market GrowthGrowing (2023–2024)Import value increased year-on-year for HS 080610 fresh grapes
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighBiosecurity/phytosanitary non-compliance can block clearance of imported fresh table grapes into New Zealand (e.g., missing/incorrect phytosanitary certification, contamination with regulated pests/soil, or other IHS non-conformities), potentially resulting in required treatments, re-shipment, or destruction at the importer’s cost.Align supplier export program to the current MPI table-grapes IHS requirements; complete pre-shipment pest controls/inspections; verify documentation and scientific-name labelling before dispatch; use an experienced customs broker and submit documents within MPI’s stated timelines.
Documentation Gap MediumDelayed or incomplete document submission (including phytosanitary certificate and transport documents) can trigger clearance delays and corrective actions during MPI border processing.Pre-build an import checklist (phyto certificate + invoice + bill of lading/air waybill + any treatment certificates/permits) and ensure submission to NZ Customs/MPI within 48 hours of arrival as required by MPI guidance.
Food Safety MediumFood imported for sale must meet legal obligations under NZ food law frameworks; unsafe, unfit, or contaminated food cannot be sold, and importers carry compliance responsibility.Maintain importer registration (or use a registered importer), keep required records, and implement supplier approval and product safety verification consistent with MPI guidance and the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
Tariff Classification LowIncorrect tariff classification or origin documentation can lead to duty/tariff errors and administrative delays at Customs.Confirm HS classification and duty treatment in the NZ Customs Working Tariff Document and validate preferential claims via MFAT Tariff Finder before shipment.
FAQ
Is a phytosanitary certificate required to import fresh table grapes into New Zealand?Yes. MPI states that all produce covered by an import health standard (IHS) requires a phytosanitary certificate issued in the exporting country, and the original certificate must be included with the consignment.
What can happen if imported fresh grapes arrive with contamination or do not meet MPI’s import health standard requirements?MPI notes that on-arrival inspections check pests, documentation, labelling, and packaging cleanliness. If contamination or non-compliance is found, outcomes can include document correction requests, further treatments (for example fumigation), re-shipping the product to another destination, or destroying the product.
Which countries were the largest suppliers of fresh grapes to New Zealand in 2024 (HS 080610)?UN Comtrade data via WITS shows the largest 2024 suppliers by import value for HS 080610 were the United States and Australia, followed by Peru, Mexico, and Chile.