FTA negotiations an important step

FTA negotiations an important step, says Meat & Wool New Zealand

The fourth round of negotiations held this week with Korea are an important step towards a free trade agreement (FTA) with a key export market for New Zealand’s red meat sector, says Meat & Wool New Zealand Chief Executive, Dr Scott Champion.

“Meat & Wool New Zealand invests farmer levies in activities that protect, maintain and grow opportunities for the sector, and FTA’s are critical to providing improved access to markets and ensuring the ongoing competitiveness of New Zealand sheep and beef exports in key markets.

“Korea is already New Zealand’s third largest market for beef by volume, importing over 30,000 tonnes last year. It is also a market where we face high tariff and technical barriers to trade.

“Korea is also an important export destination for United States and Australian red meat and co-products. The United States has already concluded FTA negotiations with Korea, and Australia is currently in FTA negotiations, so a potential New Zealand-Korea FTA will enable New Zealand meat exporters to compete on a level playing field.”

Meat & Wool New Zealand supports the New Zealand Government’s FTA negotiations by providing background information and analysis on the sheep and beef sector that negotiators use when they discuss market access for agricultural products.

“We are also actively looking to capitalise on any new opportunities that will benefit our farmers in the future. Our promotional work in Korea focuses on creating demand and premium positioning, by differentiating New Zealand grass-fed beef from the products offered by key competitors, enhancing awareness of New Zealand grass-fed beef among consumers, and positioning it as inherently distinct from other beef supplied to the market.”

Dr Champion says this week Meat & Wool New Zealand is participating in Seoul Food & Hotel, Korea’s largest food and beverage exhibition.

“A presence at the show provides direct exposure to food service suppliers, allows them to sample the produce, and secures media coverage to further heighten awareness of New Zealand grass-fed beef.

“Samples of New Zealand grass-fed beef dishes will be available at the Meat & Wool New Zealand stand and in the general tasting section of the New Zealand pavilion which will be operated by 2009 and 2010 Beef + Lamb New Zealand ambassador chef Darren Wright.

“The Meat & Wool New Zealand stand features displays of the chilled and frozen grass-fed beef cuts available in Korea, and a range of Korean-language materials promoting New Zealand grass-fed beef will be distributed to visitors.”

ENDS

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