Jul 18, 2025
The industry has taken another step forward in preparing for a more structured, transparent and credible deer velvet export system. At its 16 July 2025 meeting in Cambridge, the DINZ Board confirmed several key decisions, acting on behalf of the sector in response to growing calls for change.
As part of this progression, proposed changes to VelTrak Terms of Use, affecting buyers and exporters, were formally accepted — reinforcing the system’s role in supporting levy compliance, traceability and commercial integrity. These changes, developed with input from the Export Licensing Working Group (ELWG) and legal advisers, will take effect from 1 September 2025.
DINZ also confirmed a clear commitment to the HEAA legislative pathway for export licensing and has allocated additional resourcing to support audit and compliance functions linked to VelTrak and the registered users therein.
Collectively, these changes reflect industry expectations — from farmers and processors — for a level playing field and mark another step toward a disciplined export framework aligned with future licensing.
Export licensing and the HEAA
The Horticultural Export Authority Act (HEAA) has emerged as the preferred legislative vehicle for velvet export licensing. It offers a light-touch, proven model that enables industry-defined standards and oversight.
Following a favourable statutory review, the HEAA is, in principle, open for expansion into new primary sectors — but industry alignment and early positioning are critical.
“Licensing isn’t about centralised control — it’s about giving compliant operators a trusted platform and putting New Zealand velvet on a stronger footing globally,” says DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths. “We’re ensuring a high-integrity system as we continue to grow as an industry.”
New VelTrak Terms of Use
VelTrak remains under DINZ oversight and will evolve to reflect the maturing nature of the velvet industry. The agreed changes are targeted and fair: those already adhering to the rules, including filing returns and paying levies accurately, will see little impact. However, users who fail to comply will face consequences.
Changes include:
- Eligibility for the 2025/26 Season: Velvet buyers and exporters must file 2024/25 returns and pay any outstanding levies in full by 31 August 2025. Routine audits must be satisfactorily completed. A re-certification process of velvet buyers, involving submission of standard business documentation, will be required. Non-compliant parties will be ineligible to access VelTrak.
- Publication of approved VelTrak users: DINZ will publish a list of accredited users – entities and independent agents – to enhance transparency and build confidence.
- Suspension triggers: Late filings, unpaid levies, obstructed audits, material discrepancies, or breaches of the Animal Products Act will trigger suspension from VelTrak.
- Graduated suspension framework: A graduated framework will be adopted, with indefinite suspension a possible scenario. Reinstatement requires resolution of the non-compliant behaviour and completion of the suspension period.
- Public transparency: DINZ will publish suspension details, including the entity name, suspension dates, and reasons. This ensures visibility and protects market credibility.
“These updates protect good-faith participants and give regulators confidence in our systems,” Griffiths adds. “We’re setting a higher standard — and backing it with action.”
Looking ahead
DINZ is acting at the behest of the industry. The direction is clear: transparency, compliance, and accountability. These are not barriers — they are the building blocks of a professional, high-value export sector. More information will follow in August, including guidance on re-certification, audit protocols, and implementation.
For questions or feedback, contact DINZ at info@deernz.org
