From Compliance to Competitive Advantage: MPI Approval as a Business Strategy

In New Zealand’s highly regulated food and primary production sectors, meeting MPI requirements such as a Custom Food Control Plan, is often seen as a necessary compliance step. But increasingly, forward-thinking businesses are realizing it is much more than a regulatory box to tick. MPI approval can be a powerful tool for driving growth, enhancing market access and fostering brand trust.

Reaching new customers and maintaining competitive edge

As global markets increase their focus on food safety, quality and sustainability, MPI approval has also become a passport for New Zealand producers to reach new customers and maintain a competitive edge.

More than just meeting the minimum standard, approval signals quality, professionalism and commitment to continuous improvement.

Domenic Rossitto, Business Manager, SGS, said: “MPI-recognised programmes used to be something food businesses just needed to operate. Now, it is a core part of business revenue. Buyers want to know they can trust your processes and being MPI approved gives companies that credibility, especially when they are looking to grow in export markets.”

“From a sales point of view, it gives you a competitive edge. It shows that your organisation is committed to quality, safety and doing things right. That makes it easier to win new contracts and retain existing clients.”

Case study: small dairy exporter expands into Singapore

A small dairy exporter in Waikato leveraged MPI approval under a Risk Management Program (RMP) to enter the Singapore market. By demonstrating compliance with New Zealand’s stringent food safety standards, the business gained trust with overseas buyers and secured distribution in premium retail channels. MPI approval was not just a regulatory requirement, it was a strategic enabler for international growth.

More consistent, efficient and resilient

Beyond compliance, implementing and maintaining MPI-approved systems can lead to internal improvements that make businesses more consistent, efficient and resilient. Strong, well-documented systems enhance day-to-day operations, ensuring that processes are verified for regulatory compliance and customer expectations can be met reliably through verified and traceable processes.

Businesses that view MPI-recognized programs as part of their strategic growth plan, rather than simply a regulatory requirement, often gain a competitive edge. By embedding MPI-recognized programs into their operations and culture, they build greater trust with customers, differentiate their brand and open the door to new market opportunities – both locally and internationally.

As demand grows for high-quality food and products, more New Zealand businesses are turning to MPI approval. In today’s market, it’s not just about what you produce, but how you produce it.

What is MPI approval?

MPI approval refers to official approval granted by New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to businesses operating in food production, processing, handling or export. This approval ensures that operations meet New Zealand’s food safety and compliance standards.

MPI approval applies to a range of regulatory frameworks, each suited to different types of food businesses:

• National Programs (NP1, NP2, NP3): for low- to medium-risk food activities. NP1 covers lower-risk operations, while NP3 applies to higher-risk ones
• Custom Food Control Plans (FCPs): tailored plans for higher-risk food operations that don’t fit a standard template
• My Food Plan: a simplified pathway for small businesses that don’t require a Custom FCP
• Risk Management Programs (RMPs): required for animal products, seafood and honey intended for export
• Exporter Registration: a separate requirement under the Wine Act and Animal Products Act for businesses exporting wine or animal products

This approval ensures that your business complies with relevant food safety laws and regulatory requirements, which may include RMPs for certain export activities. However, not all MPI approvals involve RMPs. Some, like Food Control Plans or exporter registration under the Wine Act, operate under different frameworks.

The purpose of MPI approval is to ensure businesses meet New Zealand’s food safety and regulatory standards. By reducing risks in food production and handling, MPI approval indirectly protects consumers, supports public health and helps maintain New Zealand’s reputation for producing high-quality, safe and sustainable food.

What are the benefits of MPI approval?

MPI approval helps you to:

• Increase market access
• Demonstrate compliance with food safety standards, helping to reduce risks to consumers and build customer trust
• Maintain operational consistency
• Protect brand and reputation
• Lay the foundation for competitive advantage

How can we help you?

As a world leader in certification, we offer evidence-based practices that benefit you and the future of your business. We help you prepare for and maintain MPI approvals - whether for National Programs, Food Control Plans or Risk Management Programs - depending on your specific operations.

We offer a wide range of food training courses that reflect real-world practices and are tailored to your business needs. Each course supports compliance with New Zealand’s food safety legislation, including the Food Act 2014 and the Animal Products Act 1999, helping you stay up to date with regulatory requirements and industry developments.

For further information, please contact:

Domenic Rossitto
Business Manager - ANZ
Business Assurance
t: +61410219707