How AI and Wearable Tech Are Transforming NZ Dairy Farming Decisions
Technology and the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly part of life, both on the farm and off it.
The latest drop in the Global Dairy Trade price index will impact many farmers carrying a lot of debt, says DairyNZ chairman John Luxton.
Now banks must give young farmers leeway as they work their way through the crisis.
“Hopefully in 12 months there will be a much stronger industry going forward,” he told Dairy News.
The price index fell 9.3% in the latest GDT – the 10th consecutive fall, bringing it to levels not seen since 2002.
Whole milk powder, a crucial product for New Zealand, fell by 10.3% on average to US$1590/tonne.
Skim milk powder prices slumped by 14.4% to US$1419/t on average.
Anhydrous milk fat prices fell by 11.7%, butter by 6.1% and butter milk powder by 5.1%.
Luxton says NZ is very exposed to a thinly traded market.
“One outcome of the low GDT is likely to be a rapid lowering of our cost systems and probably some reduction in milk production out of NZ.
“When you look at the world market there isn’t a big overhang of surpluses despite what people are saying. The supply and demand is reasonably well balanced.”
A verbal stoush has broken out between Federated Farmers and a new group that claims to be fighting against cheaper imports that undermine NZ farmers.
According to the latest ANZ Agri Focus report, energy-intensive and domestically-focused sectors currently bear the brunt of rising fuel, fertiliser and freight costs.
Having gone through a troublesome “divorce” from its association and part ownership of AGCO, Indian manufacturer TAFE is said to be determined to be seen as a modern business rather than just another tractor maker from the developing world.
Two long-standing New Zealand agricultural businesses are coming together to strengthen innovation, local manufacturing capability, and access to essential farm inputs for farmers across the country.
A new farmer-led programme aimed at bringing young people into dairy farming is under way in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
The Government has announced changes to stock exclusion regulations which it claims will cut unnecessary costs and inflexible rules while maintaining environmental protections.
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