New Zealand Commerce Commission Warns Premium Spices over false country of origin claims (Media Release)

Following an investigation by the NZ Commerce Commission Premium Spices Torbay Limited has been warned for likely breaches to section 13(j) of the Fair Trading Act (NZ). The alleged conduct involves misleading representations about the place of origin of its organic walnut halves and dried organic blackcurrants. Both products were labelled as originating in New Zealand, despite being imported from the United States, therefore the Commerce Commission believes the conduct contravenes section 13(j) of the Fair Trading act, which prohibits businesses making false or misleading statements about the place of origins of goods. A company which breaches the Fair Trading Act can be fined up to $600,000 per offence, and individuals up to $200,000 per offence. In providing the public warning, the Commerce Commission took into account the fact that Premium Spices Torbay Limited had previously sought the Commerce Commissions advice in regard to compliance with the Fair Trading Act.