Grains Council Backs Research Plan

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

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