TL;DR: Live Export NZ proposes a ‘Gold Standard’ for cattle exports, aiming for unmatched animal welfare and boosting rural economies.
Live Export NZ (LENZ) is aiming to bring back live cattle exports, having exported $255.89 million worth in 2020.
“Since 2015, live exports have contributed 0.2% to all agriculture revenue. Over the past decade, 5000 farmers have provided breeding cattle for export, averaging over 40 animals per farm.”
LENZ highlights the additional income generated for New Zealand service providers from a single shipment of 3000 animals, about $1.5 million. This benefits domestic livestock transporters, veterinarians, feed suppliers, quarantine facilities, and local accommodations.
“Rural areas gain most economically, as this extra income boosts the local economy.”
Exported livestock often fetch a premium price, significantly above domestic market values. This boosts income for rural communities.
LENZ proposes a ‘Gold Standard’ for resuming live exports, aiming for unparalleled animal welfare standards. This initiative would solidify New Zealand’s reputation as a leading producer of ethically and sustainably produced agricultural goods.
The ‘Gold Standard’ would ensure:
- The world’s lowest stocking densities during transport;
- A vessel owner program enforcing practices to prevent catastrophic failures;
- Minimum vessel quality standards, eliminating the use of ships posing high animal risks;
- Transparent reporting on animal welfare during the journey.
