NZ-China to ramp up anti ‘P’ efforts

New Zealand and China Customs have agreed to work more closely together to combat the smuggling of pharmaceutical products used to manufacture methamphetamine (‘P’).

The agreement is the result of talks between Chinese officials and Customs Minister Maurice Williamson during a two-day visit by China Customs.

The two customs administrations are also committed to continuing work to advance further growth in trade.

“The visit of China Customs Vice Minister, Mr Lu Peijun, has reaffirmed the excellent relationship New Zealand has with China Customs in all areas of Customs activity,” Mr Williamson says.

“We have agreed to work closely in areas of intelligence, targeting and operations to combat drug trafficking.  This will result in a better understanding of illicit drug supply and presents the opportunity to disrupt the supply chain from the export end.”

The Minister commends China Customs’ willingness to approach issues that are specific to New Zealand’s trade, and reiterated New Zealand Customs’ willingness to assist China with any issues it has with New Zealand trade.

“We are committed to working together, in practical ways, to streamline processes. The cooperation between customs has helped ensure the success of the Free Trade Agreement,” Mr Williamson says.”

newzealandinc.com earlier reported:

Customs Minister Maurice Williamson says the two-day visit by the China Customs Vice Minister, Mr Lu Peijen, is an opportunity to further strengthen the connection New Zealand has with China in all areas of customs activity.

“As our largest supplier and our second largest export market, our trade relationship with China is important. New Zealand Customs has an excellent working relationship with China Customs and we appreciate their willingness to work cooperatively with us on issues specific to New Zealand’s trade.”

“The visit by Mr Lu Peijen is also particularly well timed. Customs is working with China’s Anti-Smuggling Bureau on a number of initiatives to combat drug trafficking,” Mr Williamson says.

Members of the Chinese Anti-Smuggling Bureau visited New Zealand in May to discuss the trafficking of pharmaceuticals containing precursors, and to gain an understanding of Customs’ intelligence and targeting operations.

In the year to July 2012, New Zealand’s exports to China grew more than 10 per cent (from $5.6 billion to $6.2 billion) and imports from China grew about nine per cent (from $6.7 to $7.3 billion).