Emirates SkyCargo is reporting a significant uplift in premium export volumes from New Zealand following the official activation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and New Zealand. This landmark free trade deal, which eliminates tariffs and simplifies customs procedures, is expected to boost demand for high-value Kiwi products across the Middle East and other global markets.
Growing Demand for Premium Produce
From crayfish in Christchurch and lamb in Hawke’s Bay to cherries in Central Otago and orchids from Auckland, New Zealand’s premium agricultural and horticultural exports are gaining stronger traction in the UAE. Emirates SkyCargo has positioned itself as a key logistics enabler, offering fast, temperature-controlled access through its extensive air freight network.
The airline currently operates two daily passenger flights between New Zealand and Dubai, with a direct A380 service from Auckland and a Christchurch service via Sydney. In addition to these, Emirates also operates two weekly freighter flights into Auckland. Together, this provides up to 600 tonnes of weekly capacity for time- and temperature-sensitive shipments.
CEPA Drives Floral Export Growth
One of the clearest examples of opportunity under CEPA is NZ Bloom, a specialist exporter of fresh-cut orchids. According to company owner David Ballard, demand from Dubai has grown by over 50 percent year-on-year over the last two seasons.
“Approximately 90 percent of the orchids grown in New Zealand are sold internationally, and the UAE has become one of our fastest-growing markets,” said Mr. Ballard. “The removal of import taxes under CEPA only strengthens that opportunity. Emirates SkyCargo has been instrumental in helping us maintain product quality and access new customers quickly.”
Mr. Ballard also noted the importance of reliable cold chain capabilities. “Flowers are highly temperature sensitive, and Emirates’ cold storage network is critical in preserving product condition from origin to destination.”
Strategic Connectivity Through Dubai Hub
Emirates SkyCargo connects New Zealand exporters to more than 145 global destinations through its central logistics hub in Dubai. The carrier moves nearly 10,000 tonnes of perishable goods from New Zealand each year, including seafood, meat, fruit and fresh flowers.
Wayne Turkington, New Zealand Cargo Manager at Emirates SkyCargo, views CEPA as a major step forward for bilateral trade.
“When Emirates began operating in New Zealand 22 years ago, the UAE was only the country’s 30th largest trading partner. Today, it is 11th, and CEPA will allow that to grow further,” said Mr. Turkington. “Exporters now have the opportunity to expand volumes and compete more effectively on price.”
Supporting the Aerial Silk Road
Emirates SkyCargo supports the modern equivalent of the Silk Road, using a strategic network of air corridors and logistics centres to connect producers and consumers globally. Whether delivering seafood from the South Island to luxury restaurants in the Gulf, or orchids from the North Island to florists in Europe, the airline remains a vital link in New Zealand’s international trade network.
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