Govt to Repeal Compulsory Registration of Log Traders and Forestry Advisers

"The current system fails to deliver outcomes and places unnecessary costs on forest businesses," Mr. McClay said.

The Government will repeal legislation this weekend that mandates the compulsory registration of log traders and forestry advisers, Forestry Minister Todd McClay has announced.

"The current system fails to deliver outcomes and places unnecessary costs on forest businesses," Mr. McClay said. "The repeal will be delivered at speed, with changes coming into effect before 1 July."

The previous government had instituted a compulsory registration scheme, which, according to Mr. McClay, has not yielded the intended results and has rendered ongoing regulation unwarranted. "I am confident that voluntary registration through the New Zealand Institute of Forestry is a better mechanism to support the quality of forestry advice," he added.

Additionally, the Government will refund any fees or levies already paid to the Ministry for Primary Industries this season.

Timber products are a significant component of New Zealand's primary exports, contributing $5.8 billion to the economy last year. An operating environment that bolsters a robust economy is crucial for New Zealand's recovery, reducing the cost of living, and providing the quality public services that Kiwis deserve.

The Government will also make consequential amendments to the Legal Harvest Assurance system. Today's announcement reflects the pre-election commitment to eliminate wasteful spending, cut costs, and restore confidence in the forestry sector.

"It is important that we reduce unnecessary regulation and compliance costs where possible," Mr. McClay emphasized.