They're drinking our gin here?

By Phil Boeyen, ShareChat Business News Editor

Tuesday 14th August 2001

Exports of New Zealand-made spirits - mainly gin and vodka - are booming.

Figures show spirit export sales hit a record high of $59 million for the year to the end of June, up 80% from last year's $32 million.

Head of the Distilled Spirits Association, Thomas Chin, says the performance is spectacular, with sales turnover doubling in three years.

"The increase in export earnings proves that New Zealand products are of extremely high quality and the industry can be competitive given market conditions."

According to statistics Australia continues to be New Zealand's major export market for bottled spirits, with gin and vodka accounting for three-quarters of total export volumes.

"Whisky, pre-mixed RTDs (ready to drink) and neutral spirits have also seen strong growth in Asia, which takes 25% of total volumes," says Mr Chin.

Mr Chin says looking ahead it is essential that the Government do all it can help to reduce tax discrimination and trade barriers in the industry's key markets.

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