New Zealand’s new Agreement on Climate Change, Trade and Sustainability (ACCTS) - signed with Costa Rica, Iceland, and Switzerland has progressed. On 1 July 2025, New Zealand Customs will amend the Working Tariff Document (WTD).
The agreement, which is expected to take effect late this year or early next year, eliminates import duties on over 300 environmental goods, including items like solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicle batteries, wool and timber‑based products, recycled paper, LED lighting, and insulation.
For Kiwi exporters, this means reduced costs and greater competitiveness in these sectors where sustainability is increasingly an important factor - particularly for timber and wool exporters eyeing European and North American markets.
For importers and manufacturers, the deal opens access to affordable green technology and materials, helping lower-carbon product development and operational efficiency.
The agreement also introduces climate labelling standards and rules to discourage harmful fossil-fuel subsidies - a strategic advantage for businesses marketing climate-conscious credentials.
What NZ businesses should do now:
- Importers and manufacturers: Update your sourcing plans to take advantage of zero tariffs on eligible green goods.
- Exporters: Highlight tariff-free status in your marketing materials and explore new markets in treaty countries.
- All businesses: Begin environmental certification initiatives that align with evolving global standards.
The ACCTS is a forward-looking trade tool that rewards credible sustainability and positions New Zealand businesses at the forefront of the global climate economy.
Consider revisiting your sustainability roadmap to fully leverage this new advantage, or contact us about our carbon and environmental management certifications.
To find out more, see the announcement on the New Zealand Customs website.
Please note that this article was originally titled "NZ’s zero‑tariff deal for environmental goods comes into effect", and the article body reflected this title. We apologise for any confusion caused by our misinterpretation of the announcement. The article was corrected and republished at 10:05am on Monday 23rd of June.