Co-op eyes Japanese market
Japanese consumers pay a premium for food that contains ingredients that support health.
The New Zealand Horticulture Export Authority (NZHEA) is positive following the announcement of the TPPA trade deal.
Simon Hegarty, CEO of NZHEA, says he welcomes the TPP announcement particularly with Japan's inclusion, which will eliminate an estimated $28 million tariffs.
"While the TPP involves 12 countries resolving a range of trade issues, tariffs are a prominent trade barrier component," says Hegarty.
"...as our third largest market, Japan's inclusion is significant for the future growth of the New Zealand horticulture export centre."
New Zealand exports about 60% of its annual horticulture production, at a value of $2.7 billion with the TPP countries accounting for $1.9 billion (44%) of that total.
Japan is the destination for $446 million in exports, however the country accounts for 90% of the estimated $31 million in tariffs paid to TPP countries.
Japan's 6.4% tariff on kiwifruit alone amounted to a cost of $17.5 million. The 3% tariff on New Zealand's 34 squash growers was $1.3 million and the 8.5% tariff on onions was close to $0.94 million.
"Securing this agreement is a major achievement and step toward the export double growth objective." says Hegarty.
"Eliminating trade distorting tariffs in our key export markets and maintaining our international competitiveness is crucial for the future – we can't flourish without access to markets and this agreement enhances that access."
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.