This episode featured as part of the Agronomy segment in partnership with PGG Wrightson.

The seed and grain sector is calling for stronger recognition of its $340 million export role in government policy. Seed and Grain New Zealand chief executive Dr Sarah Clark says Wellington is starting to listen, with a dedicated arable portfolio now held by Minister Mike Butterick.

Much of the seed multiplied in New Zealand is for foreign-owned companies that take value offshore.

“If the varietal rights are owned here through New Zealand-owned breeding programmes, that value would stay in New Zealand and go back to New Zealand farmers,” she says.

“There’s no denying that the industry needs to pause and think about what the next 50 years is going to look like.”

This episode featured as part of the Agronomy segment in partnership with PGG Wrightson. You can find your local team at https://www.pggwrightson.co.nz/

CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch/listen or download the CountryWide CONNECT mobile app, available on Apple iOS and Android.