New Zealand is interested in establishing cooperation with Malaysia in the halal industry and has chosen this country as a strategic trade partner in the Southeast Asian region.
Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the commitment was conveyed by New Zealand’s Minister of Agriculture, Todd McClay during a bilateral meeting yesterday.
Zahid Hamidi stated that New Zealand not only wants to be a strategic partner in halal certification, but also makes Malaysia a gateway to the ASEAN market.
He discussed that the country is also interested in increasing pineapple imports from Malaysia as the fruit is very popular with consumers in New Zealand due to its unique taste and texture.
The statement was recorded during his five-day working visit to New Zealand.
The matter will be discussed with the Minister of Agriculture and Food Safety, Datuk Mohamad Sabu, and the governments of Pahang, Selangor, Melaka and Johor will be directed to expand pineapple cultivation to meet export demand.
