Crazy
OPINION: Your canine crusader was truly impressed by the almost unanimous support given by politicians of all stripes in Parliament to the recent passing of legislation for the NZ/EU free trade deal.
New Zealand's free trade agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom are now a step closer with the passing of two Bills.
Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O'Connor says the United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement Legislation Bill and the Apple Transitional Export Quota Bill passed their third readings earlier this month. O'Connor says the two Bills will enable New Zealand to implement its obligations under the FTA and are necessary to bring the historic agreement into force.
"This is an important milestone in our ratification process and in delivering future economic security for all New Zealanders," O'Connor says.
"The UK FTA is one of the best deals New Zealand has signed, reflecting the close relationship between our two countries. It will provide unprecedented access to the UK market, eliminating all tariffs on New Zealand exprts over time. Immediately on entry into force, 99.5% of New Zealand's current trade will be able to enter the UK duty free."
O'Connor claims when fully implemented, the deal will boost New Zealand's GDP by up to $1 billion, with New Zealand exports to the UK estimated to grow by over 50%.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
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