The New Zealand Government has announced strengthened plant variety rights (PVR) to protect investments that underpin high‑value exports, regional jobs, and global demand for New Zealand produce. Ministers Todd McClay and Cameron Brewer emphasized that horticulture relies on decades of breeding and testing, and the updated Plant Variety Rights Act 2022 provides the intellectual property framework needed to remain competitive internationally.
The changes will support growers by extending protection for innovations such as drought‑resistant grass seed and higher‑yielding produce. In 2024, PVR‑protected varieties accounted for 75% of kiwifruit export returns and 55% of apple export returns, demonstrating their critical role in achieving New Zealand’s goal of doubling export value within ten years. Zespri projections show that extending PVR terms for SunGold Kiwifruit alone could generate an additional $1.8 billion in revenue over five years.
Growers will benefit from longer market value retention of PVR varieties, allowing them to build demand ahead of supply. Ministers noted that breeding and importing new varieties is costly and risky, and stronger protections ensure breeders are supported throughout the process.
The Government is also restoring provisional protection, meaning breeders are covered from the day they apply rather than waiting for rights to be granted. This allows immediate legal action if new varieties are stolen or exploited during the application process, which can take years.
By providing greater certainty, the reforms aim to empower breeders to continue innovating, drive economic growth, and keep New Zealand competitive globally. The National‑led Government framed these changes as part of its broader agenda to “fix the basics and build the future,” supporting industry and creating more opportunities for New Zealanders.
