'Make a noise on R&D'

Gluckman told last week's Federated Farmers conference in Wellington that the primary sector has sat back and largely left the decisions on R&D to government departments and CRI's, not getting involved in the process.

Strong dialogue with science policy people and providers is essential, he says.

"Noise matters; Governments listen to noise," Gluckman told the Feds. "The farming sector needs to be an active player engaged in R&D. Some people claim the primary sector takes and gives little in investment in science."

Farmers must actively suggest research objectives because they know what they need.

"Farmers need to invest in R&D and apply technology if they are to remain competitive."

Gluckman also criticised the lack of long term research in NZ. Much of the research done by AgResearch, Fonterra and LIC, and via the PGP scheme, is short term. Long term research is very important to the primary sector.

He also expressed other concerns about farming in NZ.

"Until now we have relied very heavily on low cost, high quality production distinguishing us from our competitors," he said.

"But this competitive advantage is rapidly eroding. The cost of dairy production in Europe is falling dramatically and the quality of production of some farm products from Latin America it is rising rapidly."

Farm technology and practices worldwide are diminishing NZ's competitive advantage and soon we may not be the cheapest producer of high quality products.