Fonterra’s $3.2b capital return to farmers set to boost rural incomes and NZ economy
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
Fonterra's milk collection in New Zealand for the seven months to December 31 reached 972 million kgMS, 4% higher than the same period last year, the cooperative says.
However the rate of growth has continued to slow, mainly driven by reduced South Island production growth, Fonterra says in its latest Global Dairy Update.
North Island collection in December was 4% higher than December last season. Some rain in dairy regions in the North Island supported grass growth and increased production.
South Island collection in December was 1% higher than the same month the previous season.
"Growing conditions have improved in Southland after a cold start to the season. However, dry conditions are impacting pasture growth across the east coast of the South Island and farmers will be watching this closely as irrigation restrictions may be put in place," the update says.
Fonterra's milk collection in Australia for the six months to December 31 reached 71 million kgMS, 6% higher than the same period last season. However in December it was 3% lower than December in the last season. Dry conditions are impacting pasture growth across most of south east Australia.
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.
OPINION: Voting is underway for Fonterra’s divestment proposal, with shareholders deciding whether or not sell its consumer brands business.
OPINION: Politicians and Wellington bureaucrats should take a leaf out of the book of Canterbury District Police Commander Superintendent Tony Hill.