The Government is backing a new initiative to support farmers in eliminating the impact of facial eczema in pastoral animals. This is a $20 million program and that's jointly funded by Beef + Lamb New Zealand and the Government and is estimated to save farmers in the region of $330 million a year.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay joins Dom George to discuss the announcement further.
"It's estimated to save farmers in the region of $330 million a year... it is significant," McClay says.
The program's multifaceted approach includes early detection, management, and the potential eradication of the disease, with Kate Ackland, president of B+LNZ, taking a proactive role. Minister McClay highlights the partnership's nature.
"You should view this as a partnership between the Government, Beef + Lamb and there are others in the primary industry who are also joining them and we want to work hard to get the tools farmers need."
In addition to domestic agricultural innovation, the conversation sheds light on New Zealand's efforts to enhance global trade relationships, particularly with India and Canada. With an optimistic tone, McClay describes Prime Minister Chris Luxon's upcoming trade mission to India, aiming to rejuvenate economic ties that have been dormant for six years.
"India is doing deals with the world... so you'll see Prime Minister Chris Luxon visit India within the first year... and we're going to put in every single effort we can on behalf of New Zealand," says McClay.
The conversation then turns to the challenges faced by Canada within the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Frustrations are aired over Canada's compliance issues regarding dairy market arrangements, and McClay firmly expresses New Zealand's position.
"We do trade deals and which have rights and obligations. New Zealand meets its obligations to others and trade deals. We expect them to do the same to us."
The Minister did not shy away from stating the potential for legal action if Canada fails to meet its obligations, reinforcing New Zealand's commitment to fair trade practices.
Listen to the full chat between Todd McClay and Dominic George above.
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