Alliance Group has reported a pre-tax profit of $7.9 million on the back of challenging sheepmeat markets.

The Commerce Commission has approved Cavalier Wool Holdings' (Cavalier) application to acquire NZ Wool Services International's (NZWSI) wool scouring business and assets.

Dairy, kiwifruit, apples, cherries and wine are among winners in the "spectacular" growth in exports to Chinese Taipei in the last two years, says Trade Minister Tim Groser.

Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy will attend agricultural conferences on a four-day trip to Australia and China.

NZ Wool Services International's North Island offering of 5400 bales received strong support with 99% selling, chief executive John Dawson says.

There's no better recognised brand and trademark than JCB, famous for its bright yellow diggers.

China Dairy Corporation Ltd, an industry leader there, will list on the Australian Stock Exchange.

Even with a free trade agreement you can have "enormous challenges" if you don't have authorities on each side of the border supporting the passage of goods, Prime Minister John Key says.

Affluent markets are the key prize in a free trade agreement with the EU, says ag trade envoy Mike Petersen.

Fonterra's Chinese partner Beingmate last month agreed to set up a joint venture to buy the co-op's Darnum, Victoria, plant.