NZ business leaders urge US to review tariffs
New Zealand’s top business leaders are urging the US Administration to review “unjustified and discriminatory tariffs” imposed on Kiwi exporters.
Fonterra has welcomed Prime Minister John Key's announcement at APEC of the launch of China NZ FTA upgrade negotiations.
The announcement followed a positive bilateral meeting between Trade Minister Todd McClay and Chinese Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng.
Fonterra chairman John Wilson said, "The upgrade of the FTA provides an opportunity to strengthen the already strong dairy relationship between New Zealand and China. I am pleased that the leadership of both countries recognise the value of continuing to improve the FTA. We are committed to continuing to build our business in China and the FTA will remain the key platform for that growth."
Fonterra has operated in China for more than 40 years, and has developed an integrated business strategy encompassing farms, ingredient products, foodservices and consumer brands including Anchor, Anlene and Anmum.
China is New Zealand's largest dairy export market with NZD $2.7 billion worth of trade in 2015. Fonterra has substantial investments on the ground in China, including a strategic partnership with Beingmate, a leading Chinese infant and child food manufacturer. It has completed two farming hubs and is working on a third in partnership with Abbott. Fonterra employs more than 1,500 people in China. Fonterra is also the leading premium imported dairy provider in the foodservices sector in China.
With two months until National Fieldays at Mystery Creek, organisers say 90% of sites have been booked by exhibitors.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) says access to reliable irrigation water is essential for a thriving horticultural sector.
The drought in western parts of the North Island is reaching crisis point with many farmers from Northland to Taranaki having to truck in water and feed for their stock at great expense.
The chair of New Zealand's biggest grower, packer and exporter of apples says it's been a bumper season.
The Commerce Commission's move to investigate commitments made by major banks under the Net Zero Banking Alliance is being hailed by farming leaders.
Horticultural prices are set to remain elevated this year, reflecting the balance between demand in key export markets and an increase in supply.