How to prepare wine export documents for MPI
Step-by-step guide to generating export documentation for the Ministry for Primary Industries using Cepaos.
Why MPI export compliance matters
All wine exported from New Zealand must comply with Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) requirements under the Wine Act 2003. MPI provides export eligibility statements and, where the destination's Overseas Market Access Requirements (OMAR) require it, official assurances (for example the EU VI-1), through MPI Trade Certification. Cepaos helps you compile the required data from your cellar records so documentation is accurate and audit-ready.
Prerequisites
- Wine lots with complete traceability from grape to bottle in the cellar book.
- Lab analysis results linked to each lot (alcohol, SO2, volatile acidity at minimum).
- Exporter registration number entered in Settings > Organisation.
Step by step
1. Access the export module
In the sidebar, under Compliance, click Export Documents. A list of pending and completed export batches appears.
2. Create a new export batch
Click + New Export. Select the destination country, the wine lots to include, and the shipping date.
3. Verify lot data
Cepaos displays a checklist per lot:
| Requirement | Source |
|---|---|
| Alcohol by volume | Lab module |
| Sulphur dioxide levels | Lab module |
| Geographical Indication | Vineyard block config |
| Vintage year | Harvest record |
| Bottling date and volume | Bottling record |
Any missing data is flagged in red. Complete it before proceeding.
4. Generate documents
Click Generate. Cepaos produces:
- Export eligibility data sheet pre-filled for MPI Trade Certification.
- Analysis Certificate summarising lab results per lot.
- Packing List with bottle counts, case weights, and container numbers.
5. Lodge in MPI Trade Certification
Download the generated data and enter it in MPI Trade Certification, which replaced Wine E-cert in November 2024. Cepaos does not submit to MPI.
6. Archive
Once MPI issues the export eligibility statement (and any official assurance), attach it to the export batch in Cepaos for a complete audit trail.
Frequently asked questions
Does Cepaos handle wine destined for the EU or UK?
Yes. Select the destination country and Cepaos adjusts the required fields for VI-1 or GB import documentation.
Can I export bulk wine, not just bottled?
Yes. Select bulk lot types and Cepaos adjusts volumes to hectolitres for the export eligibility data.
If you have more questions, the support team is available. Contact support.