A brighter future for agriculture

Hon John Key

Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. When our rural communities do well, the benefits flow through to our towns and cities.

National knows many farmers are struggling. But with the arrival of spring, the promise of a stronger economy, and new opportunities for innovation, the future looks brighter.

There are many places in the world with good rainfall and sunshine. Few, however, have shown the innovation of New Zealand's agricultural sector.

We have led improvements in animal health, in pastoral productivity, farm management and scientific application of fertiliser and feed supplements, and in milking systems.

To lift New Zealand out of this recession and grow our economy more than ever before, our primary sector is vital. And our success in our primary sector is built almost entirely on innovation.

National is committed to fostering even more innovation in our rural communities. We've set up the Primary Growth Partnership - an ambitious public-private partnership aimed at boosting research and development on and off the farm. 

We are investing $190 million in the partnership over the first four years, and $70 million a year after that.  This commitment will be matched by our primary industries. That will mean up to $140 million a year invested in doing things smarter right across the primary sector.

The partnership will boost the economic growth and sustainability of New Zealand's primary and food sectors, including forestry and is now open for business.

We believe that the success, the know-how, and the innovative thinking in industries provide a massive opportunity for New Zealand.

National is determined to boost productivity across all primary industries and deliver economic growth and sustainability. And we're working with our rural communities to make this happen.

The key to securing a brighter future for New Zealand is working together, learning from each other, and making the most of our opportunities. Let's grow a new future together.