The Government is hailing the securing of New Zealand’s first export order for innovative wool particle technology products as “the Holy Grail” for the commercial wool sector.
The Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand’s (WRONZ) commercial development company, Wool Source, has signed a deal with a Japanese company operating in the personal care market for eight tonnes of its unique wool particle products, Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson, announced today.
“This sale marks a milestone in the Government’s ongoing investment to find innovative new uses for New Zealand’s strong wool something we’ve long considered will boost returns to sheep farmers,” said Mr Patterson.
The Minister congratulated WRONZ and Wool Source during a visit to its Christchurch facility today.
“This export shipment is the direct result of significant investment by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to help drive the development of new high-value wool products,” Mr Patterson says.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) contributed $3.48 million to the $8.72 million four-and-a-half-year programme which concludes this month with WRONZ to find new uses for strong wool.
“It has focused on taking new high-value products from lab-scale to pilot-scale production and to engage with potential markets and customers,” said Mr Patterson.
“This has included powders and pigments to be used for cosmetics, paints, and inks.
“This contract is a taste of the opportunities that exist as we reimagine an exciting future for New Zealand wool sector and boost farm-gate returns for the country’s sheep farmers.
“We are leading by example. We’ve directed agencies to use woollen products in its buildings where appropriate, and from 1 July 2025, Kāinga Ora has transitioned to using wool carpets in the fit-out of new state houses.”
Wool exports were worth $555 million in the year to June 2025.
