Alibaba helps NZ seafood traders

With lobsters already accounting for 70 percent of its seafood exports to China, New Zealand is looking to make further inroads into the market by cutting down the delivery time of its shellfish to 16 hours through a partnership with e-commerce giant Alibaba.

China has overtaken Australia as New Zealand's largest trade partner since 2013. In 2017, seafood exports, the fifth biggest industry of New Zealand, to China reached NZ$400 million ($270 million).

"Live lobster is our top seller. As a result of the consumption upgrade in the country more consumers are starting to enjoy premium seafood at home. It is a great opportunity for us to introduce live lobsters in the market," said Damon Paling, trade commissioner of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise.