Editorial: No Small Challenge

In just two words it summed up what not only this sector but in fact the whole world is facing.

Think of the multiple threats emanating from the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, the unpredictability of Donald J Trump and the rapid rise in trade protectionism and the erosion of rules-based trade. Then overlay that with climate change and more frequent adverse weather events, be they droughts or floods.

At the same time, the red meat sector is having to look into its crystal ball and second guess the flips and flops of consumer preferences and the myriad rules and regulations which spring up almost daily to challenge our marketing and logistic teams. Can it get worse? Who knows.

At the Red Meat Sector Conference it was heartening to see the resolve of positivity and determination of the sector to get through this maze of adversity.

Once upon a time the sector was renowned for the inability of meat processing companies to work collaboratively alongside farmers. Thankfully, this is no longer the case and now we have a united sector pooling its expertise, innovating at pace and doing a great job for New Zealand.

We are seeing an example of excellence at the research level with improved and appropriate genetics, better farm systems and management, skill at the processing level with workers on the chains developing techniques that maximise the value of every carcass.

At the same time, the companies themselves are deriving maximum returns for every ounce of meat produced and opening up new markets. And credit where due, our officials and politicians are doing well to secure access to markets.

That the red meat sector is in good heart and in good hands is a credit to thousands of dedicated individuals and the mood of positivity at the recent conference is real and justified.