Trans-Tasmanian Devil: Central Agency Angers Aussies, Kiwis

WELLINGTON, New ZealandLong-standing efforts to create one regulatory agency overseeing drugs, medical devices and complementary health care products are about to undergo a test, if the New Zealand Parliament passes a new bill, which survived its first reading on Dec. 12. If passed, complementary medicines will be regulated for the first time in New Zealand.

New Zealand has not yet ratified its 2003 treaty with Australia that calls for the Trans-Tasman agency, due to lack of sufficient bipartisan support. Critics argue the bill raises sovereignty issues and will erode New Zealand consumers health choices. They contend Australian regulation of complementary medicines is strict and will force many small businesses and products to leave the market. In fact, the New Zealand First and United Future political parties have opposed the inclusion of complementary medicines in this bill, although the groups agreed to support the bills entry to select committee.

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark said the bill is an important step in Tran-Tasman regulations, an attempt to harmonize the two countries for the sake of easier Trans-Tasman business. This treaty is a very early example of [harmonization], she said. Unless complimentary medicines are in, this treaty cannot stand, and that would be a very adverse development for the overall agenda of deepening economic co-operation and integration.