The president-elect may not be due to be inaugurated until January, but indications are he is likely to adopt a more constructive approach to US involvement in organisations like the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which was undermined by some of US’ actions during the Trump administration.
As a nation that relies so heavily on its primary sector exports, NZ needs the WTO to be as strong as possible, including when it comes to its dispute resolutions forum, and more US involvement and leadership can help that.
Now more than ever before, the global economy needs countries to work together for a common good, not make decisions that might be politically popular at home in the short-term without acknowledging their longer-term implications.
That’s not to say the WTO is perfect, far from it, as there are aspects of its set-up that could do with changing.
But it’s what we’ve got right now and for NZ primary producers who rely on access to overseas markets, it’s essential that the organisation has some strength.
Colin Williscroft
Climate change predictions look bleak
Wildfires, droughts, crop damage and pests are likely to get worse in Hawke’s Bay and further up the North Island’s east coast over the next 70 years, according to a new report.
RSE worker shortage ahead of cherry harvest
The new season cherry harvest begins in Marlborough in three weeks and growers are still none the wiser whether they will have sufficient pickers.
Frozen potato dump claims investigated
An investigation has been launched following claims of European countries dumping surplus frozen potato products on the New Zealand local market.
Top ram breeder’s offer of a lifetime
More than 70 years of sheep breeding comes to an end for Northland’s Gordon Levet when his best rams and ewes will be sold this summer.
FROM THE RIDGE: Rooting for a better America
Of all the bad things Trump has done, purposely destroying Americans’ faith in their own democratic process for personal ambition is easily the biggest crime, writes Steve Wyn-Harris.
Tonight on Sarah's Country:
7:10pm – Hawke’s Bay is facing wildfires, worsening droughts, crop damage and disease in the next 70 years as a result of climate change. Hawke's Bay Regional Council chief executive James Palmer explains the latest report.
7:20pm – Has the US exceeded its WTO commitment to limit trade distorting with over US$30 billion in farm subsidies? Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand executive director Kimberly Crewther has more.
7:30pm – Is NZ agricultural sector placed to capitalise on a growing trend in sustainable finance? Rabobank’s rural manager Blake Holgate outlines the opportunities.
7.40 pm – Foreign agricultural workers are ready for New Zealand, but a lack of space in isolation is causing delays. Rural Contractors Association chief executive Roger Parton shares his frustrations.
