Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ)

The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand, widely recognized as DCANZ, serves as a pivotal advocate for New Zealand's dairy sector. The organization is dedicated to promoting the growth and sustainability of the dairy industry by improving trade conditions and ensuring equitable treatment in international agreements.

Significant Events

DCANZ has recently been vocal about the slow progress in the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between New Zealand and India, which primarily focus on the liberalization of dairy trade. The association is actively working with the New Zealand Government to achieve a trade liberalization level for dairy products comparable to other sectors.

Company Plans

Looking forward, DCANZ plans to collaborate closely with governmental bodies to enhance trade conditions for the dairy sector. The association is committed to fostering growth and sustainability within New Zealand's dairy industry through strategic collaboration and negotiation. Additionally, DCANZ is actively involved in the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) programme, contributing to initiatives aimed at enhancing the dairy-beef sector.

Executive Director Kimberly Crewther has emphasized DCANZ's strong support for free trade, highlighting the importance of allowing consumers worldwide to choose New Zealand dairy products while ensuring New Zealanders have access to international products. Crewther has underscored the need for establishing an independent bilateral agreement to eliminate new trade barriers, warning that failure to do so could weaken New Zealand’s competitive position against US rivals.

Economic Impact

DCANZ is involved in analyzing the economic impact of the dairy sector. The association commissioned an analysis by Sense Partners, which highlights the economic contributions of the dairy industry. According to Executive Director Kimberly Crewther, dairy exports have significantly contributed to the nation's export revenue growth.