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Export to China
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Okahu Wines off to China
Far North Vineyard and Winery, Okahu Estate has secured its first export order to China.
Monty Knight, owner and founder of Okahu Estate in announcing the details of the sale, revealed that he has been in discussion with the importers for several months. “The paperwork detail required, coupled with the language difficulties has made the securing of this initial order a long and sometimes trying journey. However, the good will and perseverance of my Chinese clients has resulting in an initial order of 350 cases of our premium brand “Okahu” wines”, he said. “Wines to be shipped prior to Christmas, include Okahu’s award winning Chardonnay, Merlot and Syrah, and it was the awards that attracted the buyers to our premium range”.
The importers, The Red Wine Warehouse, operate a large, modern wine store in Zhaoqing province, selling wine to the public, as well as opening up distribution to hotels and restaurants throughout the region.
“The supply contract provides for exclusive distribution of the Okahu brand in China, with provisions including targets for stepped increases year on year”, said Monty. “The initial order of 350 cases is substantial by New Zealand standards and should grow to over 1000 by 2011”.
Monty acknowledged the support and assistance given in the negotiations by a New Zealand resident Chinese speaking contact Ms C.J. Chang. “Without her, our discussions would have proven extremely difficult to complete,” he said.
“As the contact and communication with the company is going to increase, I now need to appoint an English/Mandarin speaking Far North resident to assist me with the ongoing contact”.
This is not Okahu’s first foray into exporting. They have in the past exported wines to USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Australia and the Cook Islands, but according to Monty, this has been the most challenging and rewarding. “With the free trade agreement in place, the reduction in tariffs on New Zealand wines and the fast growing economy of China, the locals are more and more wanting to drink New Zealand wine, especially reds”, said Monty. “This surely is an exciting development in the future growth of Okahu Estate and its brands.
“I must also acknowledge the support I received from Tom Dawson of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise in developing my plan for export over the last few years. It goes to show that even little wineries from a small town at the top of New Zealand can do it”!
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