It said it had received confirmation from the Ministry for Primary Industries there was no blanket ban.
Chinese authorities had temporarily suspended importation of whey powder and dairy base powder, a whey-based dairy ingredient used in the manufacture of infant formula, produced by Fonterra or produced in Australia using Fonterra’s whey protein powder as an ingredient, including whey protein concentrate.
China had also increased inspection and supervision at the border for New Zealand dairy products and indicated extra testing might be required.
“MPI has confirmed that China has not closed the market to NZ dairy products and that China is being quite specific about the range of Fonterra products which it has temporarily suspended,” NZ Milk Products managing director Gary Romano said.
“Whole milk powder and skim milk powder have not been suspended.
“We have been told that MPI is not aware of any additional market closures.
“It is, however, getting clarity on reports that Russia appears to have put a temporary ban on NZ dairy products.
“Our top priority is the safety of consumers, and working with customers and regulators to make sure the public is protected,” Romano said.
“We share the NZ Government’s objective of minimising any damage to NZ’s economy and reputation by restoring market confidence in NZ dairy products as soon as possible.
“We are fully committed to allaying current concerns as quickly and effectively as we can,” Romano said.
It is understood China has banned whey derivatives and base powder from Fonterra and now requires extra testing of other Fonterra products and of whey and other products from other NZ manufacturers.
