New Zealand has reduced the average processing time for medicinal cannabis export licences to 6.4 working days in 2026, down from 10 working days in the previous financial year. The change follows efforts by the country’s medicines regulator to streamline administrative processes and introduce digital application forms. According to the New Zealand Government announcement published on 14 April 2026, faster approvals are intended to support exporters and improve the reliability of New Zealand’s supply of medicinal cannabis products to overseas markets.
Faster Licensing Through Process Changes
Associate Health Minister David Seymour said the reduction in licensing time reflects ongoing efforts to remove administrative bottlenecks within Medsafe, the agency responsible for approving exports. Exporters must obtain a licence for every shipment of medicinal cannabis leaving New Zealand.
“This matters to Kiwi exporters. It means product is moving quicker and cashflow is improving. New Zealand companies are becoming more reliable trading partners overseas,” — David Seymour, Associate Health Minister, New Zealand Government
Industry feedback suggests the improvements are significant compared with earlier years. One exporter reported that their first export licence in 2023 took 155 days to obtain, while a recent application in 2026 was processed in eight days.
Officials say faster approvals have also encouraged more businesses to submit applications.
- 2022/2023: 26 applications with an average processing time of 22.5 working days
- 2023/2024: 48 applications with an average processing time of 17.8 working days
- 2024/2025: 65 applications with an average processing time of 10.0 working days
Shift Towards Digital Export Applications
Medsafe is also modernising how export licences are requested. Previously, applicants were required to print the form, complete it by hand, scan the document and submit it by email.
The regulator is now introducing an online electronic application form. Two of the largest exporters are currently testing the new process, and their feedback will inform further changes to the system.
“For example, previously the export application form was made to print off, complete in handwriting, scan, and email to Medsafe. Feedback was that this was outdated and inefficient. Now it’s moving to an electronic form which can be completed online. The two most prominent exportershave started trialling the new process, and their feedback will inform future changes.” — David Seymour, Associate Health Minister, New Zealand Government
Growing Export Volumes and Regulatory Review
The medicinal cannabis export sector has expanded rapidly in recent years. Export volumes of cannabis flower increased from 49.0kg in 2021 to 2,310.3kg in 2025, reflecting growing demand in international markets.
The government is also reviewing whether exporters could receive broader or more enduring licences covering multiple consignments. Currently, companies must hold a medicinal cannabis licence and apply for a controlled drug export licence for each individual shipment.
Changes to Hemp Cultivation Rules
Alongside export licensing reforms, the government has updated legislation affecting low-THC hemp cultivation. Medicinal cannabis cultivators will soon be able to grow low-THC plants without requiring a licence, allowing a greater portion of the plant to be used in medicinal cannabis production.
“We need to get money into the country. Not everybody likes this stuff, but there’s a market for it” — David Seymour, Associate Health Minister, New Zealand Government
Officials say the regulatory adjustments are intended to support exporters while ensuring controlled substances remain subject to appropriate oversight.
