What is the story about?
What's Happening?
New Zealand Good Agricultural Practice (NZGAP) has announced the selection of AsureQuality and QCONZ as new audit and certification providers. This decision follows a comprehensive review of audit partners, the first in over 15 years. AsureQuality, an existing provider, will continue its role, while QCONZ, new to the horticulture sector, will begin auditing NZGAP programs. The transition from the previous provider, SGS, will be managed to ensure continuity and maintain the integrity of NZGAP certification.
Why It's Important?
The selection of new audit partners is significant for the agricultural sector in New Zealand, as it aims to uphold high standards of food safety, environmental sustainability, and social practice. By digitizing the audit process and reducing costs for growers, NZGAP seeks to improve service delivery and enhance the credibility of its certification. This change is crucial for maintaining trust in NZGAP certification both domestically and internationally, ensuring that New Zealand's agricultural products continue to meet global standards.
What's Next?
The transition to new audit partners will be carefully managed, with detailed information provided to impacted growers and operators. NZGAP will work closely with AsureQuality and QCONZ to introduce improvements and efficiencies in the auditing process. The organization will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the new partnerships and make adjustments as needed to maintain certification standards.
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