Top wool advocate bales out
The conversion of productive farmland into trees has pretty much annihilated the wool industry.
The weakening New Zealand dollar helped local prices this week with most types increasing by the corresponding currency change, says NZWSI general manager, John Dawson.
The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies was down 2.04% compared to the last sale on 9th July.
Of the 7,900 bales on offer from the South Island, 88% sold with types suitable for in the grease shipments coming under strong competition.
Dawson says that compared to the South Island sale on 25th June, Mid Micron Fleece 24.5 to 27.5 microns were firm to 1.5% dearer with 28 and 29 microns coming down 1 to 4%.
Compared to the last time it was offered, at the North Island sale on 9th July, Fine Crossbred Fleece remained firm with longer shear types up to 3% dearer.
Coarse Crossbred Fleece were firm to 2% stronger.
Coarse Shears 3 to 5 inches were up 1 to 2%, 3 to 4 inches 2.5 to 4.5% dearer and 2 to 4 inch and shorter, 2 to 3% dearer.
Long Oddments were nominally 2% dearer with short oddments ranging from 1% cheaper to 2% dearer.
There was widespread interest for the wide cross section of types available, with Chinese shippers the most active, supported by Australasia, Western Europe, Middle East and India.
The next sale on 23rd July comprises approximately 6,000 bales from the North Island, down 32% on anticipated roster due to poor weather delaying shearing.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
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Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.
New Zealand's new Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Horowhenua dairy farmer, company director and former Minister of Agriculture, Nathan Guy says the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India is a good deal for the country.
New figures show dairy farmers are not only holding on to their international workforce, but are also supporting those staff to step into higher-skilled roles on farm.