Zespri’s main domestic competitors are claiming New Zealanders are unhappy with the lack of competition in the Kiwifruit industry.

Turners and Growers are highlighting the results of a Colmar Brunton phone survey carried out in early April, in which 85 percent of respondents said the government should open up the kiwifruit export industry to competitors.

Currently, Zespri are the only company allowed to market and export Kiwifruit overseas under government regulations.

Turners and Growers chairman Tony Gibbs says the poll results clearly show what average New Zealanders think of the industry position.

“This is all about freedom in New Zealand, and free trade; freedom to grow and sell what you produce.

Rank and file New Zealand agrees with us, they agree solidly with Turners and Growers.”

Tony Gibbs says he has called on MPs to support regulation changes for years, but public opinion could force the Government’s hand.

“I got a call yesterday when the poll hit the desk from one MP who said ‘Tony, the figures speak for themselves’, and they do.”

The full survey results can be accessed here