Just how do you collect bee semen? Carefully I guess......Must give them copies of Playbee to get them started.


US approves NZ bee exports
   

Nov 9, 2004

Trade negotiators have gained approval for New Zealand bee exports to United States, resolving a 26-year old trade dispute.

Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton has welcomed public notification in the US Federal Register that New Zealand honey bees and honey bee semen may be exported to the United States from November 22.

"The decision by the United States to allow New Zealand access for both honey bees and honey bee semen is good news. It allows our exporters access into a niche market," Sutton said.

Shipments will also be able to transit more easily through the United States to Canada, New Zealand's biggest live bee market.

Sutton said the United States Department of Agriculture has heavily scrutinised the biosecurity implications of importing New Zealand bees and was satisfied they pose no threat.

New Zealand first requested honey bee access to the US in 1978.

"Efforts by the Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, our Embassy in Washington and the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry have been vital to reach this successful outcome," Sutton said.

Some steps still need to be finalised before trade can commence, he said.

MAF is drafting export certificates for the export of bees to continental US and transit through Hawaii and will then negotiate with the United States conditions for the export of honeybees.

Exports of New Zealand honey bees and honey bee semen to the United States are expected to be valued at initially $NZ140,000 a year.

Queen bee exports to Canada in 2003 were valued at $NZ1.09 million.