WELLINGTON: Powerful US business organisations have issued a joint statement expressing "deep concern" with the New Zealand government's decision to introduce plain packaging for tobacco products.

They say it will violate New Zealand's international trade obligations and facilitate illicit trade and counterfeiting.

Examples of plain packaging in Australia. Credit:Reuters

"Of course we respect the right of New Zealand to regulate in the public interest, but this approach is contrary to regulatory best practices," the organisations said.

"Above all, there is no compelling evidence that it will actually advance the public interest."