16 August 2005 PR 118/05
Grains Council Backs Research Plan
The new arable research strategy launched by the Arable Food Industry Council (AFIC) is a positive step towards an
arable industry that is highly profitable and sustainable in the long term, said Andrew Gillanders, Chairman of the
Grains Council of New Zealand.
“Cropping farmers are looking for improved profitability and the confidence to invest and I believe the AFIC research
strategy will help deliver this," he said.
AFIC, on which the Grains Council is a voting member, is an industry body which works together to achieve positive
outcomes for New Zealand's arable industry.
AFIC identified research and development as a priority for the industry, and the result is the new research strategy.
The strategy launched last night helps to align research efforts of all industry participants, while still allowing each
to pursue their own individual interests.
“The research strategy is about developing high-value, specialised consumer food products using fit-for purpose grain
and seed. We aim to build a highly innovative industry that is strong and profitable in all segments of the production
chain, including primary production."
Mr Gillanders said research and development is the key to shifting away from commodity-based production towards grain
and seed developed specifically for niche markets.
“This industry research strategy is a way to ensure that cropping farmers always have profitable cropping options
available to them, said Mr Gillanders.
The Grains Council of New Zealand is the arable industry group of Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc).
ENDS