WTO decision cuts to the core of apple issue

A decision by the World Trade Organisation to allow New Zealand apples to be exported to Australia is a vindication of the work Labour began in 2007, Labour Leader Phil Goff says.

“In 2007 Labour lodged a case with the World Trade Organisation seeking to have Australia overturn its ban on New Zealand apples, and last night the WTO decisively ruled in New Zealand’s favour.

“The WTO ruled in New Zealand’s favour earlier this year but the Australian Government chose to appeal that decision. Australia has now come to the end of the appeals process and last night’s decision to rule in New Zealand’s favour represents the end of the legal process.

“Australia must now put it’s objections aside and work with New Zealand and the apple industry here to put procedures in place for our produce to begin to be exported.

“This WTO decision is victory for not only New Zealand apple exporters but for Australian consumers.

“This is a hugely important decision for New Zealand and represents millions of dollars in export revenue,” Phil Goff said

ENDS

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