New Zealand and Singapore have signed an arrangement to exchange export health certificates electronically for food and primary products, replacing the current paper-based process.

Trade and Investment, and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay said the real-time digital exchange is intended to streamline border processes, improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance supply chain security and integrity, and help products clear borders and reach markets sooner.

“Singapore is one of our closest trade partners,” McClay said, adding the step would support trade growth and the Government’s goal of doubling the value of exports over 10 years.

Export health certification confirms products meet importing country requirements, including in animal or plant health, hygiene, and food safety. The Government says moving these documents off paper and into secure digital channels should speed up movement through ports and reduce administration for exporters.

The agreement, signed in Singapore, sits under the Joint Plan of Action in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. New Zealand’s food and primary product exports to Singapore were $1.2 billion in the year to 30 November 2025.

Officials did not provide a start date for the shift to e-certificates or details of the rollout, including which product categories will transition first.