New Zealand red meat sector disappointed at tariffs move
"Our global markets are inter-connected and we need to take the time to fully assess the implications of any disruption to trade flows", says Sirma Karapeeva, chief executive of the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
"However, New Zealand exporters are highly responsive to global market dynamics and maintain strong commercial relationships that enable us to adapt and remain flexible. Our exporters can also continue to trade into the US.
"New Zealand also has a robust trade strategy, built on well-established positive relationships across more than 100 markets.
"Tariffs distort trade and reduce market efficiency, ultimately forcing exporters and producers to accept lower prices while leaving consumers with fewer choices and higher costs.
"The US is a key importer and exporter of beef, therefore the US announcement is likely to impact the global beef market, for instance, exporting countries may re-direct their products to markets where New Zealand also operates.
"Furthermore, with the US beef herd at historically low levels and record domestic beef consumption, we are still expecting high demand from the US for beef, despite the tariff measures.
"New Zealand red meat exporters have undertaken significant planning to mitigate potential disruptions, maintain market positions, and navigate shifts in global trade patterns".
Alan Thomson, chief executive of Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), said it is unfortunate the US is imposing tariffs on New Zealand exports.
"It is too early to tell what the ultimate impact of this will be on farm-gate prices. What is positive is that we have strong demand globally at present for red meat.
"Our sector is resilient, and our exporters are working hard to find solutions, but trade barriers like this make it tougher for farmers to get a fair price for the high-quality meat they produce".
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