On 10 September 2025, New Zealand and Malaysia signed a new Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) aimed at making trade easier between the two countries. The agreement was signed by Ms Christine Stevenson, Chief Executive & Comptroller of the NZ Customs Service, and Datuk Wira Anis Rizana binti Mohd Zainudin, Director-General of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department.

Key Points of the Arrangement

• The MRA recognises each other’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programmes. Exporters certified under globally accredited security standards will benefit from simplified customs procedures.
• It builds on the existing Free Trade Agreement with Malaysia (which already removes tariffs on 99.5% of NZ exports to Malaysia).
• In 2024, two-way trade in goods between NZ and Malaysia was NZ$3.96 billion. Major NZ exports to Malaysia include dairy, sheep and beef.
• The benefits expected are faster customs clearance, reduced red tape and costs, and more reliable transit of goods.

Why This Is Big News for NZ Businesses

• Speed to market: With streamlined customs for AEO exporters, goods can cross borders more quickly, resulting in less delay at customs means fresher perishables, faster delivery, less cost tied up in transit.
• Cost savings: Fewer procedural hurdles, lower administrative costs, and potentially lower fees and duties will help profitability.
• Certainty and compliance: If you already meet AEO standards (or are able to), this gives you an advantage. Being recognised on both sides means fewer surprises with regulatory or security requirements.
• Expanded opportunity: Malaysia is a large import market, especially for food products. This strengthens trade links in the Indo-Pacific region and gives NZ exporters more stable access.

How to Take Advantage

1. Find out if you qualify for or can become certified under the Authorised Economic Operator programme
2. Review your supply chain for any bottlenecks caused by customs delays or paperwork, and see if this arrangement can help reduce them.
3. Talk with us to implement the new procedures under the MRA.
4. Use this opportunity to expand your export markets: Malaysia may now be more attractive as a destination with improved trade logistics.

For more detailed information, see the media release from the New Zealand Customs Service:
New Customs Arrangement to Boost Business with Key Export Market

Talk to Method Global about expanding your export markets

If you’re exporting (or planning to), this is an ideal time to explore Malaysia and other growing markets. We can help you understand the new rules, optimise your customs compliance, and set up streamlined export paths. Reach out to us to see how your business can benefit under this new arrangement.