Dairy giant Fonterra has become the first New Zealand company invited to join the World Customs Organisation's Private Sector Consultative Group.
The PSCG provides trade-related advice to the organisation, an inter-governmental body that develops global customs standards and procedures relating to trade facilitation and supply chain security.
Membership of the 30-strong group is invitation only and includes major global companies such as General Motors, IBM, FedEx and the World Shipping Council.
The invitation recognised the co-operative's global presence as a manufacturer, international seller and experience with customs authorities in various markets, Fonterra group customs manager Robb Stevens said.
As a member of the group, the co-operative will have input in simplifying customs processes to smooth the flow of goods for all New Zealand importers and exporters.
"As a country that relies on exports, it's in our interests to see consistency in market rules, access and regulation," Mr Stevens said.
