China’s new beef tariffs expected to favour New Zealand exporters
Additional tariffs introduced by the Chinese Government last month on beef imports should favour New Zealand farmers and exporters.
Silver Fern Farms Livestock Rep Simon Boshier (left) with 2020 Plate to Pasture Supplier Awards winners Brent and Kara Lilley and Chief Executive Simon Limmer.
Coromandel beef producers Brent and Kara Lilley have received the Silver Fern Farms 2020 Plate to Pasture Award for their exceptional consumer focus.
The Awards celebrate suppliers of lamb, beef, venison, and bull beef who consistently supply quality stock and produce food with the consumer front of mind.
All Silver Fern Farms suppliers are assessed on the specification and presentation of stock, their Farm Assurance status, supply direct via Silver Fern Farms Livestock agents, shareholding, supply volume & timing and use of FarmIQ tools.
Six regional finalists are then assessed by a judging panel to determine the overall winner. The judging panel said the Lilley’s focus on animal care and environmental action was exceptional. The Lilley’s focus on quality saw them consistently supplying animals which achieved the Silver Fern Farms Eating Quality (EQ) standard across the year said chief judge Melissa Sowden.
“The Lilleys keep exceptional records to ensure that they are passionate about caring for their animals, the land and native biodiversity.
‘They are acutely aware their farm is in a special place in New Zealand; they produce food on a farm which is on the road to Hot Water Beach. Everything they do showcases their high standards of care to their community and those who come to visit their stunning part of New Zealand.”
New Zealand's new Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Horowhenua dairy farmer, company director and former Minister of Agriculture, Nathan Guy says the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India is a good deal for the country.
New figures show dairy farmers are not only holding on to their international workforce, but are also supporting those staff to step into higher-skilled roles on farm.
New tractor deliveries for 2025 jumped 10% compared to the previous year, a reflection of the positive primary sector outlook, according to the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA).
Entries have opened for two awards in the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) programme, aimed at helping young farmers progress to farm ownership.
Federated Farmers has confirmed interim chief executive Mike Siermans to the role.
Registrations are now open for the 2026 Ruralco Golf Classic, with all proceeds from the event set to support the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust.

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