THERE’S RARELY a dull moment in dairy these days, and in many ways the past month has been an eventful one. In addition to the finalisation of 2013-14 milk prices and financial results for most processors, the oft-mentioned targeting of ‘high-value markets’ took further shape with deals such as the infant formula joint venture between Fonterra and Beingmate, in which Australian milk and facilities will play a key role. 

IN 2013, China imported 2 .1 million tonnes of dairy worth US$8.8 billion, making it the largest importer of milk products in the world. Imports have increased 45% in the last five years, a trend gathering pace.

IF WE DON'T look after all natural pollinators, particularly the honey bee, we could see economic and social collapse, says John Hartnell, Federated Farmers Bees chairperson and a Christchurch-based exporter of bee products.

TARATAHI AGRICULTURAL Training Centre has signed a memorandum of understanding with the China Rural Technology Development Centre (CRTD).

THE WINE industry is on track to become a $2 billion export business by the end of 2020, says New Zealand Winegrowers chairman Steve Green.

AUSTRALIAN DAIRY Farmers (ADF) have launched a selfie campaign to push for a China free trade agreement which they say will put them on an equal footing with New Zealand farmers.

Synlait Milk has received MPI approval of its risk management programme at its dry blending and consumer packaging plant.

FONTERRA FARMERS are welcoming the co-op's infant formula joint venture in China.

NEW ZEALAND'S second largest dairy cooperative Westland Milk Products has revised its payout prediction for the 2014-15 season to $5.40 - $5.80/kgMS.

With the number of wine shows seeking entries, both in New Zealand and internationally, the choice and what they offer, has become bewildering.