Trans-Tasman farm leaders in Closer Farming Relations
Wednesday 17 October 2012, 6:42PM
By Federated Farmers of New Zealand
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Federated Farmers and Australia’s National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) have just concluded a joint board meeting in Sydney.
“Federated Farmers and the NFF are taking the spirit of Closer Economic Relations inside the farm gate,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.
NFF President Jock Laurie said the shared challenges for farmers in both countries meant the need for the peak agricultural representative bodies to work more closely together is now more important than ever.
“From water and carbon to building consumer trust and foreign investment, the issues facing farmers and the agricultural sectors on both sides of the ditch are almost the same,” Mr
Laurie said.
“Just as we believe greater collaboration is vital among the agricultural industry in Australia, so to do we wish to secure stronger ties with our counterparts abroad – which is why it’s essential we get together and learn from each other on a more regular basis,” Mr Laurie said.
Federated Farmers President, Bruce Wills, said the visit to Australia was extremely worthwhile and was an opportunity to work cooperatively on key issues.
“Trade is a great example of where New Zealand and Australia stand shoulder to shoulder; both seeking to improve market access and reduce trade-distorting behaviour in world markets,” Mr Wills said.
“As two countries trading the majority of the food and fibre we produce on world markets, we share the same opportunities and face the same threats, so it makes sense to work together,” Mr Wills said.
Federated Farmers and the National Farmers’ Federation today committed to continue working closely together and today’s meeting will be followed by a second joint board meeting in New Zealand in 2014.