Chinese infant formula group Yashili has been given the go-ahead to construct a planned NZ$220m (US$170.7m) infant formula production facility in Pokeno, New Zealand.

The Waikato District Council announced today (30 August) that it has approved the proposal following a three day hearing. The hearing officially closed on Monday and a 15 day appeal period commenced on Tuesday.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Yashili’s plans, announced in January, received approval from the NZ Overseas Investment office in April.

The facility will be operated via its recently established subsidiary, Yashili New Zealand. It will have a capacity of 52,000 tonnes, the company said.

The move is another example of growing Chinese interest in New Zealand’s dairy industry.

Late last year, Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group announced a deal to buy New Zealand’s Oceania Dairy Group, while, in 2010, China’s Bright FoodGroup bought a majority stake in New Zealand milk processor Synlait for US$60m. 

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now