4937 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Written Question

Published date: 27 Feb 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	4937 (2026)
Question asked:	15 Feb 2026
Member asking:	Arena Williams
Portfolio:	Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Minister replying:	Hon Scott Simpson
Answer received:	22 Feb 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_04937_2026
Document guid:	9dd1b536-3333-4422-ab76-7549e9eee3b0

4937 (2026). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: What steps would the Minister have to take to introduce any new product safety standard in New Zealand?

Hon Scott Simpson: To introduce a new product safety standard under the Fair Trading Act 1986, the Minister must follow the statutory process for making product safety regulations. This includes identifying a safety risk, assessing whether regulation is necessary and proportionate, and consulting with the persons and organisations that would be substantially affected. After considering the results of consultation, the Minister may recommend that the Governor General make regulations prescribing a product safety standard. Any new standard must then be made by Order in Council.