10 Jan 2019

New Caledonia yogurt import ban irks

6:26 am on 10 January 2019

There is criticism in New Caledonia of a government decision to ban the importation of some yogurts to protect local producers.

New Caledonia autorire de la concurrence sign

Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Walter Zweifel

The Caledonian Republicans said it was a scandal to deprive consumers of a choice and to consolidate the market for one dominant company.

They said the restriction, which applies to sweetened yogurts and those with added fruit, has been introduced despite advice to the contrary from the competition watchdog.

The government has also restricted the importation of some cheeses as well as construction materials.

Milk, which is imported from New Zealand, sells for two thirds of the price charged in New Zealand.