Labour Supports NZ/India FTA
National's decision to ‘dribble’ information about the NZ/India to Labour contributed to the delay in it deciding to supported the FTA.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor is praising the dairy sector’s contribution to New Zealand’s economy.
Speaking at the opening of Dairy Business 360 Conference in Hamilton this morning, O’Connor noted that dairy farmers showed “incredible work ethic and resistance to get the job done”.
He says the effort of the dairy sector is helping to keep the wheel of the country’s economy turning.
The food and fibre sector remains the powerhouse of NZ economy.
For year ending June 30, 2022, the food and fibre sector export revenue hit a record $53.3 billion, representing 11.1% of the country’s GDP.
He says dairy made up nearly half of that food and fibre export revenue with $22b.
“This is an impressive performance by the dairy sector in the face of challenges from Covid-19 to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and extreme weather conditions,” he says.
Silver Fern Farms has tackled the ongoing war-induced shipping challenges to mideast markets by airlifting 90 tonnes of chilled New Zealand lamb and beef to the United Arab Emirates.
The primary sector is leading New Zealand's economic recovery, according to economist and researcher Cameron Bagrie.
Dairy industry leader Jim van der Poel didn't make much of the invitation he received to the recent New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards in Rotorua.
Farmers around the country are going public big time, demanding their local district, city and regional councils come up with amalgamation plans that meet the needs of rural communities and don't allow urban councils to dominate.
The battle for the rural vote is on and parties are securing high profile names to try and bolster their chances at the general election.
Horticulture New Zealand says proposed changes to the Plant Variety Rights Act 2022 will drive innovation, investment and long-term productivity.

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