The Government has approved Summerfruit NZ's Levy Order application in time before the new season begins. The new Commodity Levies (Summerfruit) Order 2020 replaces the 2014 Order and comes into force on 18 August 2020.
Welcoming the news, interim chief executive, Richard Palmer, said the fact that the application had been approved ahead of the expected timeframe was very pleasing.
'Our application to MPI was particularly robust, especially given the high level of support from growers who voted in last year's referendum.
'The speed with which it was processed by MPI is testament to the hard work carried out by the staff and Board to ensure the industry remains supported by having a levy in place to carry on working on behalf of growers' Richard said.