Tariff levels held until 30 June 2015

Published: 13.10.2009

Import tariffs are to remain at their current levels of 5 per cent and 10 per cent until 2015 at the earliest.

Import tariffs of 5 per cent apply to textiles and a range of other products imported from overseas that are also made in New Zealand. These products include processed foods, machinery, steel, and plastic products. Tariffs of 10 per cent apply mainly to clothing, footwear, and carpet. In 2013 New Zealand's tariff situation will be assessed again.

The decision to maintain tariff levels followed Government consideration of whether there should be a further tariff review to decide non-preferential tariff levels after June 2011. The current 5 per cent and 10 per cent tariffs are subject to any reductions that may arise out of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Doha Round and the negotiation of free trade agreements.

The Ministry of Economic Development is responsible for providing advice on domestic tariff policy and for administering the tariff concessions system. Information on New Zealand’s tariffs can be found on the Ministry’s website at http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/StandardSummary____29.aspx

A media release from the Minister of Commerce and the Minister of Trade announcing the decision can be found at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/trade+agreements+key+removing+import+tariffs