On-Farm Inflation Report Shows 2.8% Rate for 2023–24
TL;DR: Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s report shows a 2.8% on-farm inflation rate for 2023–24, down from 16.3% last year. Despite this, high input prices continue to strain farm profitability. Farmers face rising costs in interest, insurance, and animal health, impacting financial stability. Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has released its latest Sheep and […]
Rabobank Faces Higher Non-Performing Loans in Agriculture
TL;DR: Rabobank’s non-performing loans in agriculture are at 4%, higher than other banks, due to its proactive approach to identifying potential loan issues early. This helps provide better support to clients. The agricultural sector faces mixed conditions, impacting overall loan performance. Greater Vigilance Cited Rabobank has a higher ratio of non-performing loans in the agriculture […]
Rugby Star Turns Brand Ambassador
TL;DR: Rugby star Scott Barrett partners with Virbac as the brand ambassador for Multimin. With a strong farming background, Barrett will promote the trace element product through a national media campaign and promotional events. Animal health company Virbac has partnered with rugby star and farmer Scott Barrett. He will be the brand ambassador for Virbac’s […]
Faster Beef Finishing: The Future
TL;DR: Neat Meat’s Simon Eriksen champions faster beef finishing for New Zealand’s red meat future. Emphasising breed changes and dairy industry integration, he highlights the Speckle Park breed’s potential. With a focus on efficiency, quality, and strong branding, Neat Meat aims to lead the industry by adding value to lesser cuts and promoting sustainable practices. […]
Race to Outbreed Climate Disruptions
TL;DR: New Zealand must rapidly develop climate-resilient crops to address the climate crisis. Professor Andrew Allan stresses the importance of gene editing and new genetic technologies, urging swift action to stay competitive. Public understanding and acceptance are crucial as regulations evolve. Failure to adapt could jeopardise the entire agricultural sector and the country’s clean green […]
Public Supports Farmers on Environmental Regulation
TL;DR: A recent survey shows strong public support for farmers regarding environmental regulations. While recognizing the need for practical rules, the public also desires progress. Beef + Lamb New Zealand advocates for balanced policies to ensure environmental stewardship without overburdening farmers, aligning with public opinion on sustainable practices. Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide The debate over […]
US Overtakes China as New Zealand’s Largest Red Meat Market for April
TL;DR: In April, New Zealand’s red meat exports dropped 4% to $922 million, with the US surpassing China as the largest market. Exports to the US rose 19%, while China’s fell 37%. Significant increases were also seen in exports to Canada, the UK, and Japan. In April, New Zealand exported red meat worth $922 million, […]
Cautious Optimism for Winter Beef Bull Sales
TL;DR: This winter, beef bull prices are expected to stay steady, but clearance rates may drop due to financial pressures on farmers. Cattle farmers will buy cautiously, focusing on essential spending and genetics. Despite challenges, high-quality bulls will still sell well. Breeders and buyers understand the financial difficulties and aim to make smart, long-term decisions. […]
Federated Farmers Pushes for Rural Banking Inquiry
TL;DR: Federated Farmers is urging an inquiry into rural banking due to declining services and increased pressure on farmers, impacting their mental health. They question Reserve Bank policies raising capital requirements, which banks use to justify higher interest rates, and suggest these policies may be worsening the situation. Emotional Toll on Farmers Federated Farmers is […]
Quarterly Update on Red Meat Exports
TL;DR: Red meat exports from New Zealand decreased by 5% in the first quarter of 2023, hitting the lowest quarterly value since 2018. Despite a decline in Chinese demand, growth in North America and recovery in the UK and Japan offset losses. Chilled meat exports showed promising increases. Red meat exports have seen a decline, […]
