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The Agriculture Federation welcomes the news of a new free trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, seeing it as an exciting and positive step forward.
“This is good news for Kiwi farmers, who have been in a pretty tough spot lately due to high costs and pressure on profit margins,” Farmers’ Federation chairman Wayne Langford said.
“As a country, we make a living by producing high-quality food and fiber and selling it around the world, but we currently operate in a challenging international environment.
“Farmers will happily welcome any move to reduce costs, increase incomes and improve their competitiveness in global markets.”
Trade Minister Todd McRae said in an announcement on 26 September that the trade agreement between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had been concluded in just over four months.
“The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE will eliminate tariffs on 98.5% of New Zealand’s exports upon entry into force, rising to 99% within three years.
“This will create new opportunities for New Zealand businesses in the dynamic UAE market and contribute to our ambitious goal of doubling our export value in 10 years.”
Mr. McCray said the UAE is one of our country’s largest markets in the Middle East and one of the top 20 export markets overall.
Mr Langford said the Middle East is a rich and growing market with huge potential and offers exciting opportunities for kiwi exporters.
“This agreement will funnel millions of dollars that would otherwise be charged in tariffs directly into our rural communities.
“It’s great to see the government delivering on its promises to open new markets, lower tariffs and give exporters more choice.
Federated Farmers, New Zealand’s leading independent rural advocacy organization, has partnered with AgriHQ, the country’s leading rural publisher, to give New Zealand farmers a better informed, united and stronger voice. and established a news and insight partnership. Farmers Federation news and commentary is published weekly in our own section in Farmers Weekly print editions and online.