New NZ Winegrowers CEO Signals Fresh Direction for Industry
Under pressure wine growers say the appointment of a new chief executive will bring a fresh perspective, renewed focus, and a clear, united vision for the industry.
New Zealand Winegrowers are happy with the historic Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) deal reached overnight in Atlanta, Georgia.
New Zealand wine exports are currently valued at $1.46 billion (NZ's 6th largest export), and the industry is aiming to achieve exports of $2 billion per annum by 2020.
TPP will undoubtedly help the wine industry reach our goal of $2 billion of exports by 2020, says New Zealand Winegrowers chief executive Philip Gregan.
"We congratulate the government and the negotiators for their hard work, and the very positive outcome they have achieved," he says.
"This is an excellent outcome for the New Zealand wine industry. 'Finalising the TPP is strategically very important for our export future as the TPP countries already account for over 60% of New Zealand wine exports.
"While we have not seen the detail of the agreement we understand it will provide improved access into key TPP markets, and a secure rules based system that will help us to improve market access."
Some arable farmers are getting out of arable and converting to dairy in the faced of soaring fuel and fertiliser prices on top of a very poor growing season.
The New Zealand seed industry has reached a significant milestone with the completion and approval of the new seed certification system.
New Zealand's persimmon season will kick off early this year, with fruit set to hit shelves soon.
Ireland and NZ have concluded a deal to extend a joint research programme on climate change.
Local growers and farmers are set to benefit from a refreshed offering from meal kit provider Hello Fresh.
Our job is not to panic but to professionally manage our way through this predicament.

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