Failing to declare an apple in your luggage could soon be an $800 mistake under proposed new fines announced by the Government today.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard announced several biosecurity updates as part of a draft bill aimed at strengthening protections against invasive pests and diseases.
One of the changes was doubling the fine for failing to declare high-risk items like fresh fruit and meat.
The proposed fine for high-risk items would increase from the current $400 to $800. Penalties for other goods would remain at $400.
“Food and fibre sector export revenue is forecast to reach $61.4 billion in 2026, making up more than 10 per cent of GDP – the primary sector really is the backbone of the economy,” Hoggard said.
“Our relative freedom from pests and diseases is a big part of our competitive advantage and underpins our world-leading food and fibre export industry.
“Any incursion can have a major impact, though, economic analysis from NZIER says a Foot and Mouth incursion would cost about $14.3 billion a year.
“What matters is strengthening our biosecurity defences from pests and diseases. We’re fixing the system so our food producers can keep doing what they do best.”
Another change would introduce new penalties and fines of up to $500,000 for breaches of controlled area notices, and the power of arrest for obstructing the execution of a search warrant.
The Government also wanted to make the development of import health standards more flexible by allowing risk assessments to be tailored to each scenario.
“This will enable higher volumes of trade and give exporters greater access to new materials to develop innovative products without lowering biosecurity standards.”
The draft bill looked to improve the management of established pests and diseases. This included faster approval for pest management plans and quicker processes to get responses underway in emergencies.
Compensation for direct and consequential losses in the event of an interruption would be retained only when they are incurred within 24 months of an event.
Hoggard said this reflected “the need to strike a balance between fairness and prudent management of taxpayer money”.
The Government would also enable minimum compensation entitlements to be varied by regulations or the Government Industry Agreement process.
He said he decided not to proceed with changes that would have expanded biofouling controls beyond New Zealand waters.
“The best way to manage any incursion is to keep unwanted pests and diseases out in the first place, which is why the Government is committed to maintaining a strong border and robust biosecurity systems.”
The draft bill would likely progress through Parliament later next year.
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