Editorial: RSE Review - A Timely Move
OPINION: A simpler, clearer, more effective Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.
Export revenue from New Zealand's food and fibre sector is expected to reach a record $52.2 billion in the year to June 30, 2022.
Dairy export revenue is on track to reach a record high of $21.6 billion, 13% higher than the previous year.
Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor says the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report, released last week, shows that this will be the first time we've hit more than $50 billion in food and fibre exports, an increase of almost 10% on the previous year.
"This is a tremendous result for the sector as farmers, growers and others in the supply chains who play such a critical role in our economy.
"They have continued to deliver quality products for Kiwis and overseas consumers while navigating global disruption and uncertainty.
"Our markets abroad are demanding high-quality products that are made with care, and this report indicates our exporters are responding to these market signals.
"To that end, the Government is investing to support farmers and growers to deliver food and fibre with low emissions and high sustainablity, which will provide us economic security."
Damien O'Connor said the SOPI, released by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), forecast significant growth across the majority of our food and fibre exports.
OPINION: David Seymour and James Meager's plan to make it easier for farmers and orchardists to operate drones can best be described a 'courageous' move.
New Zealand wool is reaching new heights as air filtration companies move away from synthetic products to biodegradable alternatives.
Opuha Dam's ability to protect South Canterbury communities from major flooding has taken a significant step forward, with Opuha Water Limited (OWL) successfully commissioning a new outlet valve capable of releasing record volumes of water from the dam ahead of a weather event.
There's been widespread support from the primary sector for the Government's announcement on changes to freshwater farm plans that come under the Natural Environment Bill, which is now set to replace the existing RMA.
A partnership between state-owned enterprise Pāmu (Landcorp Farming Limited) and charity Meet the Need is putting more than quality New Zealand beef into food bank parcels this year.
The Opportunity Party has faced criticism during the election campaign that its policies are too urban-focused and offer little for rural communities.
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OPINION: With fuel prices soaring, one would have expected most farmers to be reclaiming excise duty on petrol.