Horticulture New Zealand says "country of origin" labeling laws in New Zealand are out of sync with most other countries.
New labeling laws came into effect in the United States this week, requiring retailers to display the "country of origin" for a range products such as meat, fish, fruit and vegetables.
Horticulture New Zealand says this country has fallen behind most of the rest of the world.
It says even China has tighter country of origin regulations for frozen produce than New Zealand.
The agency disputes a view held by opponents of "country of origin" labelling that it could be a barrier to international trade.
It says other countries have used a similar system for a long time without any trade barrier issues arising.
