Silma Karapeeva, chief executive of the Meat Industry Association, said:
Silma Karapyva, Chief Executive of the Meat Industry Association (MIA), said: herald 2023 was a very challenging year for the red meat industry and what the industry is looking forward to.
New government in 2024.
What do you expect from the new government?
As a country that contributes significantly to the economy in terms of export earnings and employment, it is important that appropriate policy settings are in place to promote red meat exports.
We cannot control the prices we receive in the market. It is therefore more important than ever to focus on removing unnecessary costs and barriers, in particular ensuring the removal of non-tariff measures, strengthening access to existing markets and securing opportunities in new markets. .
What does 2023 look like for your business?
This year has been a very difficult year for the red meat industry. Demand for beef and lamb has slumped in global markets as consumers cut back on spending amid high interest rates and inflation. The influx effect reduces red meat export earnings, which is felt not only in national accounts but also especially by farmers and local communities. During difficult times, relationships with key markets are paramount, and MIA's primary focus over the past year has been to ensure that we regain relationships with key markets.
What will be the biggest business challenges of 2024?
We will continue to monitor the situation in global markets, particularly in China, which is our largest market in terms of value and volume. What is important is how quickly China's economy recovers. However, we have a diverse export portfolio and will continue to closely monitor other key markets such as broader Asia, the UK, Europe and North America to ensure we take advantage of new growth opportunities.
What opportunities do you see in 2024?
There is a huge opportunity to capture more market value from exports in Q5. Export is a general term for non-meat animal parts such as tallow and bone meal, as well as high-value raw materials such as blood products for pharmaceuticals. Exports in the fifth quarter of 2022/23 were worth $2.2 billion, an 8% increase year-on-year. These exports accounted for one-fifth of the sector's total exports in the same year.
We also note that the new government will begin efforts to secure a trade deal with India. This presents an opportunity for many New Zealand companies, including in the red meat sector. New Zealand must have a long-term approach and outlook to strengthen relationships and deepen trade. This is a 5 to 10 year project.
What was the most interesting news in 2023?
The ratification and entry into force of the NZ/UK FTA was a real milestone. The FTA truly opens up opportunities for New Zealand beef exports in traditional markets and creates new avenues for growth in the red meat sector. We are already seeing benefits from increased beef exports to the UK.
Domestically, it was heartening to see how East Coast communities came together after Cyclone Gabriel. He helped farmers re-fence their farms, helped clean up their land, and meat processing companies donated large sums of money and donated meat to hard-hit communities. . When needed.
What are the predictions for 2024?
We hope that as the current global market volatility subsides, demand and prices for beef and lamb will begin to rise again. In the long term, we know that global demand for natural protein will only continue to grow, and New Zealand is well placed to meet this demand.
What is the worst mistake you have made in business?
Probably my biggest regret is not trusting my intuition early enough. A while back, I was offered a role at an organization I really wanted to work for. The role wasn't perfect and I placed too much weight on other people's opinions instead of trusting my own intuition, which closed off certain career paths for me. That being said, I really enjoy my current job and I'm not just successful at it.
What do you consider your greatest success?
Personally, it's watching my daughter adapt well, grow into a sociable and caring person, and someone with enough courage to put others on guard.
Professionally, my biggest success has been building a small but highly qualified team of professionals who deliver real value to New Zealand's second largest commodity export industry. It's such a happy feeling to see your team humming and performing, often under great pressure and anxiety.
Where and how will you vacation this summer?
My husband, daughter, and I plan on heading to Ohope Beach for lots of swimming and relaxing in the sun. We stock up on great food and wine to enjoy and plan to keep things easy and casual. The only make-up is a good amount of sunscreen.
What books would you recommend to read in the summer?
I am an avid reader and have been participating in a book club with some friends for the past 25 years. My reading list this summer includes: troy Written by Stephen Fry. LOla in the mirrora new book by Trent Dalton, all of my life Written by Indra Nooyi. Oh, and probably some crappy magazines too!
