Beef + Lamb NZ builds ties with Europe

Beef + Lamb New Zealand continues to build valuable relationships in Europe

Beef + Lamb New Zealand Chairman, Mike Petersen will head to Europe this week to meet with the major farmer groups and meat trade organisations in Europe.

The visit is one that Petersen has been making on an annual basis to confirm the New Zealand industry’s commitment as a responsible exporter in the European meat market.

“The European Union (EU) is our most valuable sheepmeat market and it’s important to ensure key relationships are maintained and that we reinforce the complementary nature of our trade alongside that of local producers.

“The benefits of these stronger relationships have been evident, particularly in terms of the ability to work together on important issues facing the industry, such as climate change. New Zealand and European producer organisations have recently agreed to work together on a common carbon footprint methodology.

“We’ve also worked hard to ensure European farming leaders understand the complementary nature of our supply and the role that this plays in sustaining demand for sheepmeat year-round.

“This is particularly important currently when supplies of sheepmeat are tight globally.”

While in Europe, Petersen will also team up with the Minister of Agriculture and Biosecurity, David Carter to jointly champion the role of New Zealand meat in the European market.

“Working with the Minister in Europe adds to the strong reputation and presence we have in Europe and it is very valuable for Government and industry to work side by side in these important markets.”

Activities will include meetings with EU Agriculture officials and attendance at one of the major European food trade shows SIAL in Paris. Petersen will also meet with counterpart organisations in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales as well as visiting trade officials and major importers of New Zealand sheepmeat.

ENDS

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