With continued concerns around the rising price of Whole Milk Powder, a cost of living crisis, rising interest rates and the uncertainty of a national election around the corner, rural Kiwis have a lot on their minds as Aotearoa rolls into Spring.
Discussing the challenges faced by the industry, particularly in light of the current trade delegation in India, former National Party MP and dedicated Farmer Nathan Guy painted a comprehensive picture of the sector's pivotal role and the necessity for strong bipartisan trade policies for REX host Dominic George.
"The red meat sector contributes 12 billion of exports, offers 92,000 jobs inside and outside the farm gate, and exports to 108 countries," Guy said.
"We just wanted to remind all the politicians about that."
Guy also highlighted the untapped potential of the Indian market and stressed the importance of dismantling tariffs to capitalize on the opportunities it presents. Despite acknowledging the difficulties, he remained optimistic.
"We've got apples going in there. The Pure South, the Alliance cricketers, have got some lamb going in there, so there are a few green shoots."
Moreover, he called for a more aligned approach within the government regarding regulations and advocated for the adoption of a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) for any new rules.
"We think that policies around trade and things should be very much bipartisan and get government departments more aligned. Instead of the left hand saying one thing and the right hand saying the other," Guy said.
An avid rugby fan, Guy offered his views on the changing landscape of international rugby and discussed the upcoming Heartland Championship table for the 2023 season, also commenting on the growing competitiveness in the sport not only in New Zealand but overseas as well.
"Even when you look at what's happened with Fiji and Samoa and the likes knocking over big teams in Ireland, I think the world has got a lot more, even when it comes to rugby players."
Listen to the full chat between former National Party MP and farmer Nathan Guy and Dominic George above.
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