New Zealand’s exports of processed plastics have increased significantly in recent years, principally through developing international niche markets.

Plastics companies in New Zealand are very strong in packaging solutions, with many also active in construction and agricultural products. A significant amount of plastic packaging is manufactured for use in other export products, in particular for the dairy, meat and horticultural industries. Plastic componentry also features in exports of home appliances and electrical products.

With a strong international focus, New Zealand plastics processing companies have invested strongly in new plant and technology in the past decade. This has created a highly competitive industry. Quality of craftsmanship and the ability to engineer small production runs at short notice is a key benefit offered to overseas clients.

Toolmakers are in demand for their innovative designs and accurate workmanship.

Leveraging off New Zealand’s world-renowned agricultural industry, this country’s chemical engineering companies are experts in converting primary agricultural based or forest based resources into consumer products. These include chemicals for the dairy industry, animal by-products, food processing industries, wood pulp and paper industries and refined plant products.

In addition, New Zealand has numerous companies manufacturing a vast range of chemicals for domestic and industrial use. New Zealand also boasts one of the largest methanol production plants in the world.