New guidance and assessment criteria for importing HFCs in New Zealand

In May 2023 the New Zealand Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued new guidance and assessment criteria for the import of bulk hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The updated guidance provides detailed information for the application process to assist companies in obtaining special import permits. Special import permits are a requirement under the Ozone Layer Protection Regulations.  

The regulation of bulk hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in New Zealand is governed by the Ozone Layer Protection Act 1996 and the Ozone Layer Protection Regulations 1996. These regulations control the import, export, and transshipment of HFCs. New Zealand imposes an annual limit on the quantity of new bulk HFCs that can be imported, and this limit gradually decreases over time.  

Under the current import limit, a significant portion of up to 80% is allocated through grandparented import permits. These permits are exclusively available to individuals or entities that meet the criteria for grandparented eligibility. The remaining portion of the import limit is made available for allocation through special import permits. The EPA has discretion when granting these special permits. In assessing applications for special import permits, the EPA considers the provisions outlined in the Ozone Layer Protection Act and Regulations, as well as New Zealand's international obligations to phase down HFC usage.  

In summary, New Zealand sets a limit on the importation of bulk HFCs, with up to 80% of the imported product allocated through grandparented permits and the remaining balance through special permits. 

For more information click here: https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.epa.govt.nz%2Fassets%2FUploads%2FDocuments%2FHazardous-Substances%2FKigali%2FHow-to-apply-for-a-special-permit-to-import-new-bulk-hydrofluorocarbons-HFCs-.docx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK%C2%A0