IFOAM – Organics International Celebrates New Zealand’s Landmark Political Support for Organic Agriculture
IFOAM – Organics International celebrates a landmark development in New Zealand, where the Government has appointed Mike Butterick MP as Associate Minister of Agriculture – Organics, establishing a dedicated ministerial portfolio for the organic sector at the national government level.
The appointment has been welcomed by the country’s organic sector as a major step forward for sustainable food systems and a strong political signal of long-term commitment to organic agriculture.
The appointment is the most significant government commitment to the organic sector since the passing of the Organic Products and Production Act in 2023. It signals that New Zealand s serious about organic.
Chairperson, Organics Aotearoa New Zealand
New Zealand’s organic sector currently generates NZD 1.2 billion annually and continues to grow rapidly, with export earnings reaching NZD 606.7 million in 2024. Despite certified organic land accounting for only 0.6% of productive land, the sector contributes around 1.2% of the country’s total Food and Fibre export value. Global demand for certified organic products is expected to more than double by 2033, with the Asia-Pacific region leading growth.
IFOAM - Organics International welcomed the announcement as an encouraging example of political leadership for sustainable agriculture.
We received this news with great enthusiasm and encourage other governments to follow New Zealand’s example. At a time when the world urgently needs resilient and sustainable food systems, this appointment sends a powerful signal that organic agriculture deserves dedicated political leadership and long-term vision."
President, IFOAM – Organics International
The appointment also aligns with New Zealand’s ambitions to strengthen agricultural exports while reinforcing the country’s international reputation for environmentally responsible production systems.
OANZ representatives recently met with Minister Butterick to discuss export opportunities and the importance of protecting New Zealand’s GE-free status, which remains central to organic certification, consumer trust, and market access.
Our President further commended the New Zealand Government for working with forward-thinking organisations such as Organic Aotearoa New Zealand to support farmers, strengthen rural communities, and advance sustainable farming systems. She added:
IFOAM – Organics International will follow this initiative closely and look forward to sharing its progress and lessons with other regions around the world."
As implementation of supporting organic regulations progresses toward 2028, the global organic movement will be watching closely to see how this dedicated political leadership helps shape the future of sustainable agriculture policy.
Read the full press release from Organics Aotearoa New Zealand.