Singapore–NZ trade pact on essential supplies enters into force

Food, fuel, and healthcare goods are covered by the deal.

The Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies between Singapore and New Zealand entered into force on 17 July after both completed their domestic procedures.

The agreement commits the two countries not to impose unnecessary export restrictions on agreed essential supplies, such as food, fuel, healthcare, chemical, and construction products.

It also establishes a framework for the governments to facilitate the movement of goods, share information, and consult each other before or during supply chain disruptions. 

The deal will be incorporated into the Agreement between New Zealand and Singapore on a Closer Economic Partnership, the bilateral free trade agreement between the two countries.

Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology Tan See Leng and New Zealand Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay signed the pact on 4 May. 

The treaty was first announced during New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s official visit to Singapore.