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.
The Government has launched a plan aiming to boost primary sector export earnings by $44 billion over the next decade.
The Fit for a Better World plan launched today centres on three themes:
• Productivity: adding an additional $44 billion to export earnings over the next decade through a focus on value, rather than volume.
• Sustainability: improving freshwater and reducing biogenic methane emissions to 10% below 2017 levels by 2010 and 24-47% below by 2050.
• Inclusiveness: employing 10,000 more New Zealanders in the primary sector workforce over the next four years and 10% more New Zealanders in the food and fibre sector by 2030.
“The Fit for a Better World Roadmap spells out practical ways for the sector to fetch more value, create more jobs and bolster our green reputation in a global pandemic environment to ensure New Zealand builds back better, together,” said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said the sector’s ability to record 4.5% growth in the past year, with forecast export growth of $48 billion despite COVID-19, highlighted demand for Kiwi products.
However, O’Connor said the industry can’t continue to rely on volume growth to generate greater returns.
“We need to create new billion-dollar, category-leading products services for consumers here and overseas, while respecting Te Taiao – the natural world.
“Our Fit for a Better World Roadmap builds on the work both primary industries and the Government have already started and brings together actions, investment, and resources that will work in concert to accelerate the transformation we need.”
Penske Australia & New Zealand has appointed Stephen Kelly as the general manager of its Penske NZ operations, effective immediately In this role he will oversee all NZ branch operations, including energy solutions, mining, commercial vehicles, defence, marine, and rail, while continuing to be based at Penske’s Christchurch branch.
According to the latest Federated Farmers-Rabobank Farm Remuneration Report, released today, farm worker pay growth has levelled off after a post-Covid period of rapid growth.
The Climate Change Commission has recommended maintaining the current New Zealand Emissions Trading System (NZ ETS) settings but warns of a potential unit shortfall as early as 2028.
The Conservative Party warns that the upcoming free trade agreement between New Zealand and India may prioritise increased labour mobility while offering limited reassurance for New Zealand workers.
Southland District Council says it is actively managing the impacts of the current fuel supply challenges to ensure essential services across the district continue to operate safely and reliably.
A large crowd turned out for the last of the field days of the three finalists in this years Ahuwhenua Trophy to determine the top Maori horticulture entity in Aotearoa New Zealand

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