In November 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) launched a public consultation on proposed legislative changes to strengthen New Zealand’s export controls regime. The consultation document proposes new controls on intangible technology transfers, including the transfer of sensitive knowledge to foreign nationals within New Zealand, covering technologies on the New Zealand Strategic Goods List such as quantum computing items.
According to the MFAT consultation page, submissions were due by January 16, 2026. The ministry stated that the current regime cannot control intangible technology transfers or sensitive technology transferred domestically, as it focuses on the movement of tangible goods and electronic documents across New Zealand’s territorial limits. MFAT held consultation events throughout December 2025 in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, Christchurch, Dunedin, and online.
A 2021 independent review by David Smol had concluded that while controlled goods exports were managed in line with legislative requirements, the system fell short of contemporary best practice. The proposed reforms would require new bespoke export controls legislation, with MFAT anticipating a 6-to-9-month transition period between legislation passing and controls taking effect.