Biosecurity tops priorities for agribusiness leaders - report
Biosecurity remains the top priority for agribusiness leaders, according to KPMG’s 2025 Agribusiness Agenda released last week.
The New Zealand Equine Health Association signed up to a Government Industry Agreement (GIA) for Biosecurity Readiness and Response at the Karaka yearling sales last month.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy has welcomed a fourth primary industry to join the GIA partnership.
“This means the horse racing, recreational and breeding industry and the Ministry for Primary Industries can work together to manage and respond to the most important biosecurity risks,” Guy said.
“The equine industry is an important primary industry exporter with a strong international reputation. It supports almost 17,000 full-time jobs and contributes $1.6 billion to the New Zealand economy from domestic and export activity.”
Guy added that while New Zealand is fortunate that our horse population is free of equine influenza – probably the industry’s most serious disease threat – we must be vigilant to maintain that status.
“I’m pleased the industry has recognised the value that GIA offers by working together to maximise our collective strengths.”
New Zealand Pork, Kiwifruit Vine Health and Pipfruit New Zealand signed up to the GIA in 2014.
Six industry organisations, including DairyNZ and the Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ) have signed an agreement with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to prepare the country for a potential foot and mouth outbreak.
The 2026 Red Dairy Cow conference will be hosted by New Zealand in March.
While global dairy commodity prices continue to climb in most key exporting countries, the second half of the year is expected to bring increased downside risks.
In a surprise move, Federated Farmers meat and wool group has dumped its chair Toby Williams.
Former MP and Southland farmer Eric Roy has received the Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award.
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