Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and the Meat Industry Association (MIA) launched a comprehensive package of proposed policy changes ahead of the 2023 General Election.
The proposed changes were aimed at growing export revenues and increasing jobs.
The manifesto spans five key areas – climate and environment policy, workforce and industrial relations, trade, biosecurity, and innovation, research and development.
The manifesto was sent to every Member of Parliament and relevant officials. It was intended to help guide new Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on what policies should be shelved or changed.
It reflected the fact that the Government had tried to do too much too quickly and ended up with a lot of poorly crafted and conflicting rules that have significant negative financial implications for sheep and beef farmers, rural communities and the wider economy.
It argued that pragmatic policy and regulatory settings are critical if our sector is to continue to lift productivity, foster innovation and produce world-class, sustainable and premium food.
It called for certainty and clarity and provided a clear road map with simple solutions.
Related links: New Zealand’s red meat sector launches manifesto ahead of general election