PRIMARY Industries Minister Nathan Guy has launched a programme to boost sheep and beef profitability in the Horizons region.
It is the first of the eight possible programmes arising from the Regional Growth Study between Manawatu-Wanganui and Government.
Mr Guy said at the Feilding Saleyards on Friday morning that the Horizons region had more sheep and cattle than any other in the country, and those farms could be more profitable.
"We know that the top 20 per cent of red-meat farmers achieve returns approximately four times more than those of the average red-meat farmer, irrespective of land class and location. This shows the potential on offer," he said.
About 30 people were invited to the saleyards for the announcement, including ministry staff, mayors and local and regional government staff.