New Zealand is reforming export regulations for dietary supplements, easing red tape to help exporters compete globally, government ministers announced today.

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard, and Trade Minister Todd McClay revealed the first steps in modernising regulations for dietary supplements.

The changes come as part of the Therapeutic Products Act Repeal Bill, which will replace outdated regulations and support the country's exporters.

"We are addressing long-standing issues for New Zealand companies wanting to export dietary supplements," Ms. Costello said. "By repealing the Therapeutic Products Act, we have an opportunity to put in place sensible legislation for natural health products. While long-term reforms will require consultation, we are making immediate improvements to assist exporters now."

Under the new changes, the Dietary Supplements Regulations 1985 will transition from the outdated Food Act 1981 to the modern Food Act 2014.

This update will allow exporters to apply for exemptions from New Zealand’s stringent labelling and composition requirements, enabling their products to better compete in international markets.

“This is exactly what the industry has been calling for," Mr. Hoggard said.

"Currently, our exporters are at a disadvantage. Antiquated rules have even prevented some dietary supplements from being exported to certain countries, despite meeting international standards.”

The reforms align with the Government’s broader goal of doubling export value within the next decade. “Cutting red tape for dietary supplement exports is a key step in growing this innovative sector,” Mr. McClay said.

These regulatory updates mark the beginning of a larger overhaul of New Zealand’s approach to natural health products. A standalone Natural Health Products Bill is in the works, while the outdated Medicines Act will be replaced with a new Medical Products Bill.

"The Government has heard the natural health products sector loud and clear: they don’t want to be regulated alongside medicines and medical devices," Ms. Costello said.

Officials from the Ministry for Primary Industries and the Ministry of Health are also working on interim regulatory improvements for dietary supplements while the standalone legislation is developed.

"This is just the start," Ms. Costello said. "We are committed to working with the sector to deliver further reforms, and we look forward to announcing more changes in the new year."

These reforms signal a fresh approach to boosting New Zealand’s dietary supplements industry and supporting its exporters on the global stage.