NZ exports more spirits

DESPITE the recession there is still good demand for premium quality New Zealand-made spirits, with value up 28% to $52.6 million in the past year.

"Our exports are continuing to find success in Australia, North America, Asia and the Pacific Islands. They go to markets in 40 countries from Antarctica to Turkey," said Distilled Spirits Association chief executive Thomas Chin.

Export volumes shipped increased by 32% to 1.8 million litres of alcohol, the equivalent of 513,000 cases (one case of 12x750ml). The strongest performing categories by volume are vodka, liqueurs and ready-to-drink beverages.

Mr Chin said the negotiation of various trade agreements and lowering of import duties in overseas markets could further help drive export business and future revenues. "Emerging but highly protected markets such as India with a tariff barrier of 150% duty and Korea, at 20%, could yield good future prospects as well as the important and recovering US market," he said. (Photo(R) Pilar Echeverria | Dreamstime.com)