The Health Minister of New Zealand has instructed officials to investigate the possibility of a joint trans-Tasman medicines, medical devices and dietary supplements regulatory body.

The proposed agency would be responsible for approving products, setting standards and monitoring compliance. It would replace the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration and the New Zealand agency, Medsafe. A single set of regulations between the two countries could have many benefits. It is also possible that the new agency will perform contracted services such as the assessment of chemical and gene technology products.

Reference: 15 March 2001. Taskforce discussion paper http://www.medsafe.govt.nz.