NZ Signs Halal Deal with Indonesia to Boost Meat and Dairy Exports

A new halal cooperation agreement signed between New Zealand and Indonesia over the weekend is poised to open major trade opportunities for Kiwi meat and dairy exporters, Agriculture and Trade Minister Todd McClay has announced. The deal, signed in Jakarta, underscores the Government’s commitment to expanding economic ties in Southeast Asia and increasing returns for New Zealand’s primary industries.

Unlocking Access to a Key Growth Market

Indonesia, with a population of 280 million and a rapidly expanding middle class, is already one of New Zealand’s top trading partners. In 2024, exports of meat and dairy products to Indonesia exceeded $1.1 billion, and the new Halal Cooperation Arrangement (HCA) aims to significantly grow that figure by streamlining the certification process and improving market access.

“Indonesia is an important growth market for dairy and meat products,” said McClay. “There’s huge potential for our premium products, and this agreement will give exporters confidence in maximising that opportunity.”

What the Halal Cooperation Arrangement Means

The Halal Cooperation Arrangement focuses on closer collaboration in three key areas:

• Halal standards development

• Certification processes

• Product assurance systems

These areas are critical for ensuring that New Zealand’s exports meet Indonesian halal regulations, which are mandatory for many food products entering the country. In recent years, Indonesia has significantly tightened its halal laws, creating barriers for international exporters—especially those dealing in animal-based products.

By aligning New Zealand’s halal compliance frameworks with Indonesian expectations, the HCA reduces the risk of delays, rejections, and unnecessary costs at the border.

“This agreement supports ongoing collaboration between New Zealand and Indonesia on halal standards, certification, and product assurance—helping exporters meet requirements and streamline trade,” McClay said.

Industry-Backed Approach

Importantly, the agreement was developed with significant input from New Zealand’s dairy and red meat sectors, ensuring that it reflects the realities and capabilities of domestic producers.

“The HCA was developed with close input from our dairy and red meat sectors — delivering value for our world-best producers,” said McClay. “It’s another step in our plan to grow the economy by boosting exports and delivering stronger returns for Kiwi farmers and processors.”

Industry representatives have welcomed the deal, noting that it provides certainty and stability in a region with growing demand for high-quality protein.

Strengthening Rural Economies

Beyond boosting export revenues, the agreement is part of a broader economic vision to revitalise rural New Zealand. McClay emphasized that when the country’s farmers and processors thrive, the benefits ripple through the entire economy.

“When rural New Zealand does well, all New Zealanders do well,” he said. “We are committed to supporting farmers not just through words, but through tangible actions like this agreement that expands access and delivers real outcomes.”

A Broader Indo-Pacific Strategy

The halal agreement fits into a wider Government strategy to deepen economic links with the Indo-Pacific region. With trade relationships under pressure globally, New Zealand is focusing on diversifying its export base and forging reliable partnerships in high-growth regions.

Indonesia, as Southeast Asia’s largest economy, is a prime target for this strategy. The new halal framework may also serve as a model for future agreements with other Muslim-majority countries where halal certification is a trade requirement.

What Comes Next

Following the signing of the HCA, technical teams from both countries will now work together to align audit procedures, finalise mutual recognition agreements, and support New Zealand businesses in understanding the new compliance processes.

Training and certification updates for halal certifiers in New Zealand are expected to be rolled out in the coming months, further improving the readiness of Kiwi producers to enter or expand in the Indonesian market.

With this agreement, New Zealand is taking another step toward ensuring its exports remain competitive, respected, and in demand in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.