MPI’s Diana Reaich: Building global trade relationships
Relationships are key to opening new trading opportunities and dealing with some of the rules that countries impose that impede the free flow of trade.
MPI is taking more time to review submissions to its consultation on the definition of Manuka honey.
The Ministry for Primary Industries is taking more time to review submissions to its consultation on the definition of Manuka honey.
Because of the number and complexity of submissions, the Ministry has decided to build approximately six to eight weeks into the process to ensure all feedback is thoroughly reviewed.
The Government has released a scientific definition for manuka honey, in hope of safeguarding the authenticity of the products that New Zealand exports overseas.
“We received a lot of useful feedback throughout the consultation from beekeepers and honey producers as well as members of the public,” says MPI director systems audit, assurance and monitoring, Allan Kinsella.
“In addition to what we heard at a number of public meetings, we received 120 formal submissions. Because of the scientific nature of the proposals, many of these were detailed and technical and will require thorough review.
“We’ve also heard from many in industry that they would like MPI to take extra time to consider their submissions.
“We’ve taken a careful and considered approach to developing the proposals and collecting feedback. The process is too important to rush because our reputation for honey production and export rests on the integrity of our products and the credibility of our systems.
“We need to make sure that the final requirements are robust and accurate so that overseas regulators have confidence in the assurances we give them about New Zealand manuka honey, and that consumers in those countries can be confident in the products they are purchasing.”
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
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