Trade Minister Tim Groser today signed an Arrangement to enhance cooperation in wine-related business with Hong Kong.
Mr Groser says the new Arrangement will help New Zealand wine exporters access the growing Asian market.
“Hong Kong is fast developing a sophisticated wine culture and is becoming the wine hub of the region. The Arrangement
enhances knowledge transfer in wine education and will improve the marketing and profile of New Zealand wines in Hong
Kong.
“The Arrangement specifically acknowledges New Zealand Winegrowers’ world-leading sustainability framework, which
provides a significant point of difference for New Zealand in the Hong Kong market.
“New Zealand looks forward to a continued partnership with Hong Kong as it develops as a regional wine wholesaling,
marketing and distribution centre in Asia,”Mr Groser said.
In early 2008, Hong Kong abolished its excise tax on wine as part of its strategy to become a regional wine hub. New
Zealand’s wine exports to Hong Kong in the year to June 2009 were up by 44 per cent to NZ$ 8.9 million.
ENDS