Live animal exports by sea are expected to resume after a National government forms, but it could be a year before the first shipment leaves.
For years, New Zealand exported cattle to China to help build their dairy herd, with nearly 135,000 cattle exported in 2021.
In April, Labour banned livestock exports, after an independent review found they could damage New Zealand's reputation regarding animal welfare.
National promised it would restart live exports, with 'gold standard' rules to protect animal welfare and safety.
Livestock Export New Zealand chairperson Mark Willis said the industry had been working on animal welfare rules for a while.
"Since Labour announced the ban (in September 2022), the industry has been working with the Ministry for Primary Industries on a weekly basis to improve welfare standards.