Trans-Tasman Trade Collaboration: What the Latest Australia–New Zealand Joint Statement Means for Logistics and Exporters
Australia and New Zealand have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping Trans-Tasman trade strong, resilient, and efficient. This is welcome news for freight, logistics, and export businesses operating across the Tasman.
At the recent Closer Economic Relations (CER) Ministerial Meeting in South Australia, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell and New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay discussed new ways to reduce barriers and strengthen supply chains between our two countries.
A Renewed Focus on Trade Resilience
With global uncertainty continuing to affect supply routes, both governments are working together to protect the Trans-Tasman supply chain. The Ministers agreed to:
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Enhance supply-chain resilience, ensuring freight and cargo can keep moving even during global disruptions.
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Align product standards and regulations between Australia and New Zealand to make cross-border trade simpler and faster.
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Maintain open and fair access for businesses bidding on government procurement contracts in both countries.
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Improve the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement (TTMRA) so goods and services approved in one country are recognised more easily in the other.
Building a Stronger Future for Exporters and Importers
The meeting also highlighted commitments to:
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Pursue ambitious reform at the WTO for fairer, more transparent global trade.
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Promote digital trade and e-commerce, opening more opportunities for small and medium-sized exporters.
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Support innovations in logistics and continue investment in low-emission transport and technology to help both nations reach net-zero targets.
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Strengthen cooperation through the CPTPP, RCEP, and AANZFTA trade frameworks, giving local exporters and importers access to more Asia-Pacific markets.
Why It Matters for the Logistics Industry
For freight forwarders, exporters, importers, and logistics providers, this collaboration means:
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Less red tape and faster processing when moving goods between Australia and New Zealand.
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More predictable trade rules that support long-term planning and investment.
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Reliable continued market access and more security in the opportunity to form cross-border collaborations.
As both nations reaffirm their vision for a resilient, integrated Trans-Tasman economy, the logistics sector stands to benefit from smoother processes, clear standards, and a renewed focus on growth and innovation.