Red meat exports slump, thanks to China
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
The new Market Connections Fund is an excellent initiative to help New Zealand businesses build back their relations with overseas customers, says Federated Farmers.
"The dairy industry has some ground work to do after the fall out of Fonterra's recall of product," says Willy Leferink, Federated Farmers Dairy chairman.
"We know a number of dairy exporters have been affected by this. Many have had product stuck in ports, which is hardly their fault.
"Relationship building needs to be done face to face if it is going to mean anything and I know this is going to be a huge help to those who are serious about repairing the damage done.
"The New Zealand Trade Enterprise fund will reimburse 50% of travel costs for New Zealand based employees, which means that businesses' will have to put their hand into their own pocket. This will sort out those who mean business out from those who are looking for subsidised holiday.
"Dairy farmers know their products are first rate in the world, and that New Zealand is a world class safe producer of food, however this has been put to the test. We want our exporters to get out there and re-establish themselves and this is the helping hand they needed," says Leferink.
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) says access to personal banking services in rural communities is fundamental to promoting outcomes that benefit Kiwi consumers.
A group set up to boost education and promotion of wool says it has made positive strides during the first year of its three-year strategy.
Meat processor ANZCO Foods says despite a challenging business environment, it has posted a net profit before tax of $61 million for 2023.
The deer industry is working on getting more venison into Asia.
The red meat sector is welcoming the start of trade negotiations between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Meat processor Alliance Group's cash-strapped farmer shareholders face a dilemma - either pour more money into the co-operative or risk losing 100% ownership and control.