One and One Don't Make Three
OPINION: Since when did one and one make three? Who didn't smell an elephant-sized rat when our leaders decided to give $60 million to save the cement factory in Northland?
A weaker New Zealand dollar, limited wool volumes and renewed client interest, combined to lift local prices across the board says NZWSI general manager, John Dawson.
Of the 6,350 bales on offer, 99% sold.
The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies was down 1.79% compared to the last sale on April 30.
Fine crossbred full fleece and longer shears were 7 to 10% dearer, stimulated by resurgent Chinese interest with shorter types 3 to 6% firmer.
Coarse crossbred full fleece and longer shears were 5 to 11% dearer with shorter types 4 to 8% stronger.
Lambs fleece lifted 4 to 6%. Good colour short oddments were 8% dearer with poorer styles up 8 to 12%.
The sale saw limited competition with China dominating supported by Australasia, Middle East, India and Western Europe.
The next sale is on May 14 and comprises about 4,600 bales from the North Island, down 32% on anticipated rostered volumes.
Supply chain problems, growing protectionism and a move to greater food security are some of the key challenges facing New Zealand exporters, according to our top trade negotiator, Vangelis Vitalis.
A spat within the ranks of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association has resulted in the suspension of outspoken North Canterbury farmer Barry Cuttance.
After delivering a strong financial year, rural trader PGG Wrightson says the coming months will depend on customer confidence and weather.
Beef+Lamb New Zealand and the Ag Emissions Centre have launched a new research project aimed at helping beef farmers reduce methane emissions without impacting productivity or profitability.
The apple sector is working with the Government to unlock access to two key markets that could bring millions in revenue for apple growers.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

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