25 July 2006
Farmers Disappointed At Doha Breakdown
New Zealand farmers are extremely disappointed that trade talks have been suspended, said Don Nicolson, Vice President
of Federated Farmers of New Zealand.
Mr Nicolson’s comments follow WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy suspending the Doha Development Round after talks over
the weekend failed to reach agreement.
“The WTO remains a vital forum from which New Zealand farmers can see improved access to markets, an end to export
subsidies, and withdrawal of domestic support.
“Federated Farmers urges the New Zealand government to remain committed to this hugely important trade round getting
back on track,” said Mr Nicolson.
“The removal of international farm subsidies was worth an estimated $600 million to the New Zealand dairy sector alone,”
said Mr Nicolson.
ENDS