Global push for art market equality grows as New Zealand introduces Artist’s Resale Right

Yesterday marked a historic day for New Zealand’s art community with the implementation of the Artist’s Resale Right (ARR) for the first time.

This landmark development, effective from 1 December 2024, means New Zealand artists can now receive royalties from the resale of their works in New Zealand, the UK, Australia, and countries in the European Economic Area (EEA). This is also good news for UK artists, as a reciprocal arrangement enables them to receive ARR royalties from the resale of their works in New Zealand.

DACS is working in partnership with Resale Royalty Aotearoa (RRA) who are administering ARR in New Zealand. This collaboration ensures that artists in both countries are fairly compensated for the resale of their works across borders.

A positive step for artists worldwide

ARR ensures that artists benefit from the increasing value of their works in the secondary market, providing them with ongoing financial recognition. This latest development reinforces the principle of fair treatment for artists.

DACS has long championed ARR in the UK, distributing over £10 million annually to more than 6,000 artists and estates, with total royalty payments over £130 million since 2006 when it was first introduced in the UK. The implementation of the Right in New Zealand builds on DACS’ successful partnerships with Australia and the European Economic Area and a global ambition to have the right apply across the world, with South Korea implementing it in 2027 and Canada currently considering its adoption.

Christian Zimmermann, Chief Executive of DACS, said:

Find out more

• What is the Artist's Resale Right?
• Read about our campaign for a global resale right
• Sign up to our DACS newsletter to keep up with art news and hear more about our campaigns