NZ farmers to feel the grunt of new COVID wave
The meat industry in New Zealand faces the prospect of significant supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and farmers are advised to work on different scenarios to cope with the uncertainty brought by this new wave of infections.
Similar to during a drought, processing space is already tight in many parts of the country. Sirma Karapeeva, chief executive of the Meat Industry Association, said rising cases of Omicron in the community have the potential to increase processing delays for farmers.
“Processors have strategies in place to minimise delays as much as possible in the event the workforce is affected by Omicron. However, we’re urging farmers to speak with their livestock representatives about their individual circumstances.”
Sirma notes the situation is compounded by a worker shortage in the processing and exporting sector and global supply chain issues including container shortages, off-schedule vessels, delayed transit times, and port productivity.
Mark Harris, B+LNZ’s Eastern North Island North’s Extension Manager says in response to possible supply chain disruptions and dry conditions, it’s important farmers make decisions early.
On the other hand, a severe drought reported in several parts of the country may limit feed supplies in the market. "We always expect it to be dry at this time of year, but this year the severity and speed of the drought has caught us all out," declared Waikato-based Total Ag Ltd consultant Rob Macnab. As well as scenario planning, he suggests farmers prepare an alternative budget.
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