The New Zealand Deer Industry says it is increasing velvet exports to China as demand grows.
In the past year, $12 million worth of deer antler was exported to China compared with $3 million in 2007.
A group of mayors from a velvet production area, Laioning Province in China, have visited a deer farm in Wairarapa as they look to brand their province as 'Deer City'.
The deer industry's velvet marketing manager, Rhys Griffiths, says New Zealand velvet appeals to the group because it is grown in a clean, green environment.
He says a rise in Chinese wealth has lead to the demand and has helped the industry move away from reliance on the South Korean market.
Mr Giffiths says co-products of deer including sinews and tails are also used in health food products in China.
