Biosecurity Ranked Top Priority In KPMG Agribusiness Agenda 2026
According to new research, industry leaders have ranked world-class biodiversity as the number one priority for the 16th year in a row.
New tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump signal an uncertain future, but New Zealand farmers know how to adapt to changing conditions, says Auriga Martin, chief executive of Farm Focus.
Martin, whose company provides financial management tool for farmers, believes many farmers will be concerned about the impact of the tariffs.
However, she points out that farmers who are aware of their margins can make the necessary adjustments to weather the storm.
“While it’s difficult to plan for an uncertain future farmers know how to adapt to changing conditions and this will be no different,” says Martin.
“Farmers are inherently good at adapting, running lean, managing costs or diversifying income on their farm. They know that building resilience as a business is important regardless of what the disruptors are.
“And with the US imposing significant tariffs globally, Kiwi farmers may find themselves well positioned to adapt to the changing export market.”
As part of his ‘Liberation Day’ announcements President Trump slapped baseline tariffs of about 10% on US imports.
He will also be imposing reciprocal tariffs on countries that have treated the US unfairly in terms of tariff and non-tariff barriers. 10% tariffs will be imposed on NZ and Australian goods exports to the US, whereas much higher US tariffs will be imposed on major export markets, including China, Japan, the European Union and much of the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region. The US is NZ’s 3rd largest goods export market ($9bn annually), being a key destination for NZ exports of meat, dairy and wine as well as selected non-commodity exports.
Tickets are now available for the 2026 Arable Awards, set to be held in Christchurch on 20th August.
Environment Southland is calling on residents to be vigilant and check their properties after a new Old Man's Beard site was discovered near Dipton.
Amelia Marsden has secured the 2026 Nelson Young Grower title for the second year running, earning another opportunity to represent the region at the national Young Grower of the Year competition later this year.
Federated Farmers is urging the Government to put a halt to Waikato Regional Council's controversial Plan Change 1 (PC1), warning the regulations will impose significant costs, complexity and duplication on thousands of farmers while major national reforms remain unresolved.
Joshua Irving has been named the 2026 Ormond Nurseries North Canterbury Young Viticulturist of the Year.
Vets say they support the responsible use of virtual fencing and virtual herding technology for cattle and wants to work with farmers, manufacturers and government to help shape standards for future use backed by ongoing research to strengthen animal welfare outcomes.

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