What is the minimal quantities exemption?

In specific circumstances, importers and manufacturers may be exempt from 2 steps in the usual compliance process. Retailers may be exempt from 1 step, the Mandatory Energy Performance Labeling (MEPL) requirements.

How to comply

Only importers and manufacturers can apply for an exemption. Retailers should ask their supplier for a copy of the approved exemption if the exemption applies to products they sell.

For exemption to product registration requirements:

  • The product is subject only to MEPL (applies to clothes dryers, clothes washers, and dishwashers) and
  • No more than 50 units of the same model will be imported into or manufactured in New Zealand by anyone and
  • You have applied for a minimal quantities exemption and
  • It has been approved.

For exemption to Mandatory Energy Performance Labeling (MEPL) requirements:

  • No more than 50 units of the same model will be imported into or manufactured in New Zealand by anyone and
  • You have applied for a minimal quantities exemption and
  • It has been approved.

A product model is defined as an item which has the same brand, model number and energy performance characteristics. Changing the model number does not create a new model in the context of the minimal quantities exemption.

If the exemption has been approved, you don’t need to register your product or meet MEPL requirements, but manufacturers and importers must still provide sales data annually to EECA.

Providing sales data

See the exemptions clause in the Regulations(external link)

Apply for an exemption