New Zealand’s public service department overseeing farming, fishing, food and other sectors recently approved Cobb New Zealand as an Avian Transitional Facility (ATF). This vital step allows Cobb New Zealand to import live poultry and poultry hatching eggs from approved countries.

“Cobb’s dedication to biosecurity is second to none and it is my honor to approve the Cobb New Zealand Avian Transitional Facility,” said Barry Wards, specialist adviser for biosecurity of MPI.

With this certificate, Cobb New Zealand will now be able to supply Cobb genetics to markets like China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and others.

“With MPI’s certificate of approval as an Avian Transitional Facility, we are now one step closer toward beginning production in New Zealand,” said Pelayo Casanovas, general manager of Cobb Asia-Pacific.

Cobb invested nearly $50 million in building the pure-line facility in New Zealand. Located near Huntly, the facility is expected to create approximately 100 jobs in the area.

Cobb New Zealand is expected to begin delivery of breeding stock in June 2019.