US Launches Lamb Safeguard Probe, NZ Exports at Risk
As expected, the US has launched a safeguard investigation into lamb imports, a move that could impact New Zealand sheepmeat returns.
The Primary Sector CEO Bootcamp conference last week was a major success, says Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy.
The boot camp over two days last week brought together 35 agribusiness leaders and five Government agency chief executives into one room, representing 80% of all primary sector exports, says Guy.
"The boot camp initiative started in 2012 and has involved chief executives working together to grow our export earnings and take advantage of major opportunities around the world.
"There is renewed determination to double our primary sector exports to $64 billion by 2025 and establish New Zealand as a premium producer of food and fibre. This is an ambitious but very achievable goal, with the right policies and leadership from both Government and industry.
"It is great to have so many top industry leaders in one room, prepared to collaborate and share expertise for sustainable growth."
Prime Minister John Key along with ministers Steven Joyce and Guy spoke to the boot camp, which has also featured update presentations from CEOs and collaborative action planning.
"Recent challenges have reinforced just how important the primary industries are to New Zealand. They remain the powerhouse of our economy, making up around 72% of all our exports and generating around $32 billion a year."
The inaugural boot camp began at Stanford University in 2012, and the success of this has led to an ongoing programme of collaborative actions.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.

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