Meat and Wool wants to build depth in China

Meat and Wool New Zealand says it is looking at resourcing a comprehensive market intelligence project to support exports to China.

"China buys more than 20 per cent of New Zealand wool exports," board chief executive Mark Jeffries told farmers at a conference in Christchurch last week.

China had become the global centre for wool processing and manufacture, and also had the largest sheep flock in the world, he said.

"To support our $1 billion wool industry, we must understand the dynamics of the Chinese industry and enhance our relationships with scourers, spinners and manufacturers to ensure New Zealand wool retains its premium status, while promoting greater demand for wool against competing fibres," he told the Growing the Future Conference.

The board worked with Chinese mills to ensure they chose NZ wool for its premium qualities and positioning.

It supported an office in Beijing for Wool Interiors, which provided important technical support to Chinese carpet manufacturers.

China was also an important destination for sheep and beef cuts.

Exporters were exploring opportunities for new markets for different products.

- NZPA