FEBRUARY 2024: The year has begun at pace with multiple industry events in the first quarter of 2024 and plenty of opportunity to share aspirations between Members.
The stopping of all Industry Transformation Plan (ITP) programmes by the incoming Government doesn’t alter our industry impetus. As one of the first ITPs (and arguably most focussed) our sector has created unstoppable momentum. As we all know, the global drivers for our food and fibre systems are unquestionable and the opportunities for Aotearoa New Zealand are abundant and well matched to our core skills. We are continuing our engagement with both industry and Government to lean into a focus on industry and trade growth – through agritech’s role in enhancing our food systems both at home and abroad.
Looking to the year ahead, we have several key programmes and a great lineup of opportunities to meet, learn and collaborate in shared growth initiatives. June is jam-packed, so we’ve created a guide to help you decide where to focus your attention. This year’s highlight will undoubtedly be Agritech Unleashed, 6-7 August. We say this with confidence because it is strengthened by the momentum accumulated over the last few years. We will unpack the true meaning and disciplines of collaboration in an experience that will further propel the sector’s growth. You can expect honest debate, detailed workshops and global inspiration as we seek to build collaborative fitness.
Last week I attended evokeAG and spent quality time with our Australian counterparts. We would like to strengthen our trans-Tasman relationship this year and consider opportunities for our Members to actively engage.
Meanwhile, Kylie has recently returned from Europe after attending Berlin Fruit Logistica and a New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) Discovery Tour in Spain. Take a look at Kylie’s LinkedIn posts for further information about both experiences.
Each month, we look forward to sharing further updates and many exciting opportunities.
Brendan O’Connell
Chief Executive, AgriTechNZ