Citing reputational risk from poor animal welfare practice, New Zealand is banning live exports of animals.
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On Wednesday, Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor announced the controversial practice would end within the next two years.
"There's a lot of public pressure here, a lot of concern," Mr O'Connor said, saying many farmers supported the ban.
"We must stay ahead of the curve in a world where animal welfare is under increasing scrutiny."
Unlike Australia, New Zealand does not export live exports for slaughter, only for breeding.
Since the start of 2020, Kiwi exporters have sent 118,000 cattle overseas, all to China.
TVNZ has reported the government informed the Chinese Embassy a fortnight ago warning of the move.
"This is not about China. It's about animal welfare," Mr O'Connor said.
Despite its reputation, New Zealand has exported just one voyage of sheep in the past 13 years.
The ban will take effect after a two-year transitional period.
Australian Associated Press
