Six senior Ministry for Primary Industry (MPI) officials spent two days in Central Otago in early November, as guests of Summerfruit NZ.
The visit was part of the ongoing relationship Summerfruit NZ has with government departments to ensure they understand the summerfruit industry, and put policies in place that support the industry’s growth and improve growers’ profitability.
The visit showcased industry excellence, while enabling MPI to hear directly from summerfruit growers about the practical realities of producing premium fruit, adopting new technology and building enduring export growth.
The officials visited six orchards and towards the end of the visit, participated in a round table with several growers.
‘The energy and innovation of the summerfruit industry was conveyed through good engagement between officials and growers,’ says Summerfruit NZ Chief Executive, Dean Smith.
‘Successfully and sustainably growing premium summerfruit is complex. There’s a diversity of approach to growing premium fruit, and no one system or approach is guaranteed to be a winner every year. Our growers conveyed that we are a strong and energetic industry, with a commitment to sustainable long-term growth.’
Dean says common concerns voiced by growers are having reliable access to markets, and the high cost and complexity of importing new germplasm – that is, fruit varieties and rootstocks.
‘In response, MPI made it clear it wants the primary sector to flourish, and it has a regulatory duty to ensure risks are minimised. What MPI wants from industries like summerfruit is prioritisation around market access, policy changes, and research and development funding.’