Heinz Watties has shipped its first exports of New Zealand canned vegetable to Russia.
The vegetable processer has sent canned peas from Canterbury, which will be followed by corn from Hawke's Bay.
Group export manager Donald Park says Russia is a growing market for consumer products and the company believes there are further opportunities for New Zealand vegetables there.
Heinz Watties exports 55% of its production, with the major markets being Australia, Japan, South Korea, Europe and the United States.
Its parent company, Heinz, already has a presence in Russia, producing baby food at several processing plants. Heinz has also started exporting infant milk formula there from Britain.
