Frontline biosecurity 'untouchable'
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard has reiterated that 'frontline' biosecurity services within Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) will not be cut under the Government's plan to reduce the public service.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy is welcoming new figures forecasting that primary exports will reach $37.5 billion for the year ending June 2017.
The forecast is up $0.8 billion on the previous December forecast.
“This is the first time MPI has produced a quarterly update of its Situation Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) which will give us a more accurate picture during the year,” says Guy.
Next year overall primary sector exports are expected to grow by 9.7% to $41b.
Guy says it shows New Zealand has a strong, diversified primary sector and shows forestry and horticulture doing well. And it’s pleasing to see dairy rebounding after several tough seasons.
“This year is likely to be more challenging for the sheep meat sector with market volatility and the UK’s exchange rate fluctuations.
“So the government is strongly supporting the meat industry through the Primary Growth Partnership, with about half the funding going to red meat projects. Access to China for chilled meat is also a major positive, along with renegotiated access to Iran.”
The SOPI report was released by Guy at the Te Hono National Summit for primary industries leaders in Christchurch last week.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.
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