| 63 “It’s no secret the arable sector is under pressure with margins.” RURAL SERVICES » Seed and Grain NZ solutions. The arable sector has many voices representing different interests, including Federated Farmers, Foundation for Arable Research, the Arable Food Industry Council and United Wheat Growers to name but a few, and a strength of the sector is the shared recognition that collaboration and engagement is key. We need to support each other to achieve changes beneficial for the arable sector”. Sarah says the good news is that the world wants New Zealand produced seed: “Kiwi farmers are world class, the quality is superior and our seed companies are trusted partners internationally. New Zealand’s seed industry generates around $340 million in exports, with vegetable seed accounting for 36 per cent of value, and ryegrass 28 per cent.” She says the seed export figures only tell half the story of the seed and grain industry and what is often overlooked is the key role the industry plays in supporting New Zealand agriculture and food security, providing feed and seed for dairy, beef and sheep systems that underpin a significantly larger share of the country’s food and fibre exports. “Domestic seed and grain sales are essential inputs for productivity across livestock industries, particularly through high-performance ryegrass and clover seed varieties that enhance pasture quality and animal performance.” She says grain production plays a vital role in supplying domestic markets, with wheat and other cereals bred specifically for New Zealand conditions including soil type, climate and pest pressures. “This local breeding capability ensures consistent yields and reduces reliance on imported varieties that don’t perform as well, strengthening long term resilience in the food system.” Seed and Grain NZ CEO Dr Sarah Clark.
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