Exciting New Fertilizer Discovery
TLDR: A promising Australian fertiliser boosts crop yields and cattle weight gains while reducing parasites and costs. The mineral-rich blend, verified by CSIRO, improves soil health and sequesters carbon. Jennings wants to introduce it in New Zealand. Former ACT MP and Federated Farmers president Owen Jennings has found a new fertilising method in Australia that […]
Navigating New EU Forestry Regulations: A Call for Clarity from NZ Beef Exporters
TL;DR: New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay is advocating for minimal compliance obligations for NZ beef exporters under the EU’s new rules aimed at combating global deforestation. With the regulations set to impose significant fines and the potential to impact NZ’s beef trade with the EU, McClay emphasises NZ’s low deforestation risk and seeks assurances […]
Navigating Rain Patterns: New Zealand’s Unique Weather Dynamics
TL;DR: New Zealand’s diverse topography plays a crucial role in its weather patterns, with mountains and ranges significantly influencing rainfall distribution. The country’s position makes it susceptible to various weather systems, yet certain areas remain dry due to the specific “angle” of incoming weather, a phenomenon accentuated by geographical features and prevailing wind directions. New […]
Farmers Stand Firm: No Increase to B+LNZ Director Fees Amid Economic Strain
TL;DR: At their annual meeting, 66% of B+LNZ voting farmers rejected a proposed increase to director fees, reflecting broader concerns over current financial strains. The proposal sought to raise the total director fees pool to $475,000 annually. Amidst economic challenges, the farming community calls for fiscal restraint, mirroring their own financial pressures. In a decisive […]
Bracing for Impact: Navigating Unforeseen Economic Shocks in New Zealand’s Dairy Sector
TL;DR: New Zealand’s dairy industry faces significant challenges from unpredictable global events, including geopolitical tensions and natural disasters. Economist Shamubeel Eaqub highlights the critical need for the sector to prepare for sudden disruptions, such as spikes in shipping costs and supply shortages, emphasising the impact of such events on essential resources like diesel. With the […]
Budget Cuts Prompt Staff Reductions at New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries
TL;DR: Facing a 7.5% budget cut as part of the government’s austerity measures, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is set to reduce its workforce by 9%. Director General Ray Smith announced that this decision aims to preserve frontline services while adjusting the internal structure. Approximately 384 positions will be affected, although efforts will be […]
Lamb Market Outlook: Modest Expectations Amidst Global Protein Demand
TL;DR: The hope for a late-season surge in lamb prices is dwindling, with forecasters predicting stable but not stellar prices through to May. Factors such as strong demand in the U.S. are counterbalanced by increased competition from Australia and global economic uncertainties. While the overall demand for protein remains robust, price expectations are tempered, indicating […]
Optimism Tempered with Realism: The NZ-EU FTA and Its Impact on the Red Meat Sector
TL;DR: The New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is seen as a pivotal yet underwhelming development for New Zealand’s red meat industry. While it promises smoother trade and enhanced cooperation, the sector views the access gains as minimal, particularly for beef exports. Industry leaders call for future negotiations to address these limitations and non-tariff […]
Farming Costs Stabilise After Inflation Surge, Westpac Predicts Easier Times Ahead
TL;DR: The tide is turning for on-farm costs, with inflation rates settling back to more manageable levels after a significant spike. Westpac economists forecast a return to near-normal inflation rates for the farming sector, offering a glimmer of hope amidst financial pressures. This shift is primarily attributed to moderated costs in key areas such as […]
BLNZ Meeting: Farmers Vote Against Fee Hike, Support Key Remits
TL;DR: At the recent Beef + Lamb New Zealand (BLNZ) annual meeting, farmers voted against increasing director fees while showing support for several key farmer-proposed remits. Discussions focused on challenging the notion that livestock significantly contributes to global warming, preserving NZ’s beef and lamb’s natural reputation, and establishing a unified emissions position for the sector. […]
