Jul 14, 2025
The industry has taken another step forward in preparing for a more structured and transparent deer velvet export system. As part of this, VelTrak Terms of Use will be updated, which — if approved — would come into effect from 1 September 2025.
These proposed changes aim to reinforce levy compliance, support traceability, and help the industry take meaningful steps toward a future export licensing framework. They are the product of work undertaken by the Export Licensing Working Group (ELWG) — a cross-sector group made up of farmers, exporters, and processors — with input from legal advisers.
“The ELWG has helped us strike a balance between fair enforcement and industry practicality,” says Rhys Griffiths, CE of DINZ. “These changes are not about adding red tape, but rather about setting clear rules that reward compliance and uphold the integrity of New Zealand velvet.”
Export licensing and the HEAA
The Horticultural Export Authority Act (HEAA) has emerged as the preferred legislative pathway for velvet export licensing. The Act recently completed its five-year review with favourable findings and could be updated to include other primary sectors.
Officials have indicated that early industry alignment is key. A formal industry vote can take place once a legislative proposal is before Parliament — but momentum must begin now if velvet is to be positioned for inclusion.
“Licensing will be a medium-term play — but one that delivers fairness, clarity, and international credibility,” Griffiths adds. “We want to be in the legislative queue, not watching from the sidelines.”
Proposed VelTrak Terms of Use changes
VelTrak sits firmly under the oversight of DINZ, and the proposed updates reflect a natural evolution of the system as the velvet industry matures. The aim is simple: to ensure that all participants are operating on a level playing field. Those who are already filing returns and paying levies on time and accurately will see little to no impact.
However, delinquent or inconsistent buyers will need to lift their game. These short-term adjustments help reinforce system integrity and ensure DINZ has the right tools to manage VelTrak use and access fairly — while also laying the groundwork for a future export licensing system under the HEAA. Updated VelTrak Terms of Use, together with export licensing, form a transparent, accountable framework that protects the value and reputation of New Zealand velvet.
“Most VelTrak users won’t be affected — but for the system to work, there must be consequences for those who don’t play by the rules,” says Griffiths. “This is about protecting the good operators and giving assurance to buyers and regulators.”
For questions or feedback, contact DINZ at info@deernz.org
