By Political Editor Duncan Garner
New Zealand has finally won its battle to export Kiwi apples to Australia, after a 90-year fight.
Prime Minister John Key says Australia must immediately drop its ban and let our apples in.
But growers remain concerned Australia will play games and make it tricky.
The World Trade referee, the WTO, has ruled Australia’s ban on New Zealand apples is unscientific and breaks the rules.
“The last season has been disastrous. The opportunity to go into another market is welcome and it is so close,” says Nelson apple grower Richard Easton.
“I do believe Aussies will be chomping their way through New Zealand apples before long,” Mr Key said.
Australia banned New Zealand apples in 1921, believing them to carry the pest Fibrelight.
New Zealand argued that was rubbish and the WTO ruled in favour in August.
Australia appealed and a 148-page ruling confirms New Zealand apples won.
The Australian government says it accepts the decision, but wants now to look at what risks importing our apples might pose.
“I’m sure the Aussies will word a protocol that does make it difficult,” Mr Easton said.
As Trade Minister Phil Goff pushed the WTO action, he says the Australians now have no option.
“There’s a risk they could hold this up still further,” he said.
“[But] the decision has been made. They just need to get on and implement it.”
It will take a year before New Zealand apples will be exported – which should be worth at least $30 million to Kiwi growers.
Mr Key says he expects in the spirit of the ANZAC relationship, Australia won’t play any more games and will let our apples in.
He says, if he detects any problems, he will raise it with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard when she visits New Zealand in February.
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