Industry group calls for a sensible approach

27 April 2005

Industry group calls for a sensible approach to legislation

Natural Products New Zealand is taking a stand against opponents to the proposed Trans-Tasman joint agency (JTA) to regulate natural health products believing a joint agency will help ensure consumer safety and the continuation of the industry.

Natural Products New Zealand represents a significant proportion of New Zealand natural health product manufacturers, from large companies such as Healtheries to small practitioners, and $300 million in annual turnover from domestic and export sales.

Ron Geiger, chair of Natural Products New Zealand and managing director of Alaron Products, said the industry wants to see a joint agency introduced which contains sensible regulation and appropriate risk-based manufacturing standards, and not just a copy of the Australian TGA regulations.

“Ensuring the safety and quality of ingredients and final products is not only essential for consumers but it will have a significant impact on export opportunities for New Zealand manufacturers.

“You would have to take a second look at any manufacturer that was not welcoming a cost effective regulatory system and that does not recognise the necessity for this approach.

“We will be working towards a system that will uphold the integrity of the industry while minimising the impact in terms of compliance. For exporters to Australia, we are looking for reduced compliance costs. It needs to be one that companies can work with and will provide the momentum to grow the industry. Trans Tasman harmonisation is a goal for the business leaders of both political parties,” concluded Mr Geiger.

Natural Products New Zealand is one of several industry bodies invited to consult with Government to progress a new regulatory framework that will work in harmony with New Zealand’s natural health sector.

ENDS

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