Taupo-based Miraka and Malaysian distribution partner Storiiu signed a memorandum of understanding in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed by Flavell during a visit to Malaysia with a delegation of seven Māori companies to raise the profile of New Zealand’s food and beverage sector, he said in a statement.
"This is an example of Māori leading with the principle of kaitiakitānga (guardianship of the land, its people and environment) and shows the positive response this approach is receiving in international markets," Flavell said. The agreement was evidence of Māori innovating and moving products and services up the value chain, forming long-term international partnerships, and building economic value for the future, he added.
Miraka uses geothermal steam from the Mokai geothermal field, owned by shareholder Tuaropaki Trust, to run its processing operations. Up until now it has manufactured products for its customers, including powders and UHT but will now start shipping the Whai Ora smoothie blend, without specifying when the exports will start.
New Zealand exported $851 million to Malaysia in the year to March 2017, 4.5% lower than in the prior year.
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