GMP Pathway

Workflow steps

1. GMP Assessment
   Determine which GMP pathway applies for the New Zealand market. NZ's Minimum Quality Standard (MQS) is the domestic GMP framework, equivalent to EU-GMP. MCA also accepts EU-GMP, TGA (Australia), and Health Canada certificates for imports.
2. Domestic or Import?
   Domestic production follows MQS. Imported products must hold GMP certification from a recognized authority (EU-GMP, TGA, or Health Canada).
3. MQS — NZ GMP Framework — Domestic production
   The Minimum Quality Standard (MQS) is NZ's GMP framework, equivalent to EU-GMP. MCA issues its own GMP certificates under MQS. Not yet widely recognized internationally.
   • MQS-compliant manufacturing facility
   • MCA GMP inspection and certification
   • MQS is equivalent to EU-GMP
   • MCA certificates not yet widely recognized internationally
4. Recognized Foreign GMP — EU-GMP, TGA, or Health Canada
   MCA accepts EU-GMP, TGA (Australia), and Health Canada GMP certificates for imported products. No additional MCA inspection of the overseas site required.
   • EU-GMP Part I accepted for finished product
   • TGA (Australia) GMP certificate accepted
   • Health Canada GMP certificate accepted
   • Certificate must specifically cover cannabis scope
5. GMP Pathway Cleared ✓
   GMP requirements satisfied. Proceed to MCA import permit or product approval applications.