Exporting to China?
New rules of origin relating to the New Zealand-China FTA
New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreement with China commences on 1 October 2008.
In order for New Zealand companies to access the preferential tariffs it offers, exporters must demonstrate that their goods qualify under the rules of origin set out in the agreement. To do this, goods exported to China require a New Zealand Certificate of Origin with their export documentation. Without this companies will not have access to the tariff rates.
The process for demonstrating origin and qualifying for a certificate is rigorous. The exporter will need to be able to provide sound evidence that the goods meet the origin criteria. The procedures will take time to complete and exporters are advised to act early.
Questions about the process for obtaining a certificate and the evidence required can be directed to the certification bodies.
New Zealand Customs has designated three entities to issue FTA Certificates of Origin:
- Independent Verification Services Ltd
- New Zealand Chambers of Commerce Inc
- Wine Institute of New Zealand Inc
Independent Verification Services and New Zealand Chambers of Commerce can issue certificates of origin for all export goods. The Wine Institute can only issue certificates for New Zealand grape wine classified under the tariff heading 22.04 and made solely from grapes grown in New Zealand.
If you have a shipment to go to China, get this process underway now to avoid unnecessary costs and delays.
The contact details of each certification body are:
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Independent Verification Services
Ph: 0800 021 169
Fax: 07 857 0882
certifynz@ivsltd.co.nz
www.ivslimited.co.nz
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New Zealand Chambers of Commerce
Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury and Otago Chambers are issuing certificates on behalf of NZCC. For further information go to: www.chamberdocs.co.nz
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Wine Institute of New Zealand
Contact:
Sue Church – Manager Wine Export Certification System,
Ph: 09 306 5552 sue@nzwine.com
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If you have any questions around Customs procedures, export classification (HS codes), binding rulings on origin or other measures delivering preferential entry into China, you can email New Zealand Customs on tradepolicy@customs.govt.nz or contact the Valuation and Origin Section at:
Valuation and Origin Section
New Zealand Customs Service
Box 29, Auckland
New Zealand
Telephone: 64.9 359 6655
Facsimile: 64.9 359 6586