MPI (New Zealand) Consults on Proposed Amendments to Import Health Standard for Cats and Dogs

On 13 January 2025, the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) announced a public consultation on proposed changes to the Import Health Standard (IHS) for the importation of cats and dogs. This regulatory update, which is open for public feedback, aims to enhance biosecurity measures and ensure the health and safety of pets entering New Zealand. Through this consultation, MPI seeks input from stakeholders on the proposed amendments, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining robust biosecurity protocols while facilitating the safe importation of animals.

The proposed amendments cover four key areas. First, regarding Brucella canis, MPI suggests increasing the timeframe for testing in mated dogs, including semen testing. The second adjustment pertains to the testing for Babesia gibsoni and Babesia rossi, with MPI proposing to extend the timeframe for testing and requiring the testing of dogs younger than 6 months using PCR tests, as well as increasing the number of PCR tests to three. The third change involves pre-export identification checks, with an official veterinarian required to conduct these checks before the rabies titration test. Finally, MPI proposes to remove the previous suggestion to allow transit through non-categorized countries.

These adjustments are designed to ensure that all health checks and treatments are thoroughly documented and meet New Zealand’s import health standards, ultimately enhancing the safety of pets being imported into the country.

The public consultation will close on 13 March 2025, allowing stakeholders time to review and comment on the proposed changes.

Impact: The proposed amendments are expected to have a significant impact on the pet transportation and veterinary services industries. These enhanced biosecurity measures may result in increased compliance costs and longer preparation times for importing pets into New Zealand.

Next Steps: Businesses involved in pet transportation, veterinary services, or animal importation should carefully review the proposed changes, particularly those related to the Brucella canis, Babesia gibsoni, and Babesia rossi testing protocols. Preparing for additional testing requirements and ensuring all pre-export checks comply with the new standards will be crucial. Additionally, engaging in MPI’s consultation process can provide an opportunity to shape the final regulations.