Federated Farmers has welcomed the appointment of Mr Murray Sherwin as chief executive of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and Director General of Agriculture and Forestry.

"The Federation is delighted that the State Services Commission has appointed a person of Mr Sherwin's calibre and dedication to the agriculture sector," said Federated Farmers President Alistair Polson.

"The New Zealand economy is heavily reliant on international trade. The Agricultural sector contribution to GDP is 17% and 11% of the workforce are directly involved in agriculture. It is vital that New Zealand agricultural remains competitive." "Mr Sherwin's vast experience in international trade and agricultural economics, together with his solid international reputation will serve the agriculture sector well."

"I look forward to working with Mr Sherwin in his new position," concluded Mr Polson.

ENDS

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