The OECD has put our slow productivity back in the spotlight

It's biennial report's found a lack of competition and restrictive rules on foreign investment, are barriers to improving our productivity.

It also recommends taking a more aggressive approach, to boost competition in some sectors like grocery.

Employers and Manufacturers' Association chief executive Brett O'Riley says there have been some encouraging signs so far, but it's time to get real.

He says we need to accept other countries have good testing systems, and if they're happy with those products, we should do the same.