AUSTRALIA'S Manuka honey industry has welcomed the end of a costly legal battle, as New Zealand honey interests confirm they will not appeal the recent trademark decision.
Australian Manuka Honey Association chairman Ben McKee said, "we are very pleased to learn that there will be no appeal from what was a very well-considered ruling".
"This closes a legal chapter that has been costly for all involved, and I'm delighted to be refocusing our attention on promoting Australian Manuka honey to the world.
"We will continue to seek collaboration with our NZ counterparts, as there is more to be gained in working together as the only two producers of native Manuka honey, than in fighting protracted legal battles.
"With rising international demand, there is room for both Australian and NZ Manuka honey in our key markets.
"Together we have a wonderful story to tell about the scientifically-supported health benefits of honey from the Leptospermum plants, whichever side of the Tasman that honey comes from."
Dr McKee said while there were many passionate members of the industry in NZ who felt strongly about their local product, this was also true in the Australian industry.
"I would welcome those in NZ knowing more about the very long associations that Australia's First Nations people have with Manuka, and the reality of our industry in Australia."
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