New Zealand Apples

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has released its findings in the dispute between Australia and New Zealand over conditions on the importation of New Zealand apples.

In March 2007, following a comprehensive Import Risk Analysis (IRA) by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Director of Quarantine permitted the importation of New Zealand apples subject to measures aimed at managing the risks of introducing certain pests and diseases. In December 2007, NZ requested the establishment of a WTO dispute settlement panel, challenging the IRA’s measures in relation to fireblight, European canker and apple leaf curling midge. The WTO Panel has ruled that the quarantine measures imposed by Australia for these three pests were “not sufficiently supported by scientific evidence” and that the measures were also “more trade-restrictive than necessary”. The Government issued a media statement on 10 August 2010 advising that Australia will appeal. A final ruling by the WTO Appellate Body is expected by the end of the year.

Throughout the dispute, Australia has strongly and vigorously defended its quarantine regime and made it clear that the Government is committed to maintaining the integrity of Australia’s science-based quarantine system. Australia has also indicated to New Zealand, throughout the dispute, that our preference was to resolve the dispute bilaterally, although we could not relax measures aimed at managing risks. We believe that there is scope for meaningful trade in apples from New Zealand under those measures.

The Government has also consulted with Australia’s apple and pear industry during the course of the dispute, and industry representatives attended the Panel hearings at the WTO in Geneva. Further information, including all Australia’s submissions and all formal WTO documents can be obtained on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.