The manuka honey sector says there are still a lot of hurdles to go through to trademark the term "manuka" in China.

The New Zealand government's backed its attempt to do so, which would effectively bar Australian competitors from using the term.

Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association general manager John Rawcliffe told Mike Hosking it's a very long journey, which has already gone on for a few years.

He says the government's support is a key to becoming successful but there's still no guarantee.

Mr Rawcliffe says China demanded support from the government here, which has been given.