l to just 1% of the value of agricultural output, compared to an average value for developed countries of 31%. Remaining assistance in New Zealand is primarily in the form of funding for agricultural research [4]. p align="justify"> Around 90% of New Zealand s total farm output is exported. These exports account for over 55% of total merchandise exports. Most food consumed in the country is domestically produced.
4. Nowadays evaluation of policy developments [2]
? Significant progress has been made since 1986-88 in removing policies causing agricultural production and trade distortions. The level of producer support is the lowest across OECD members, domestic and border prices are aligned, and payments are only provided for pest control or relief against climate disasters. p align="justify">? Reforms undertaken on the statutory producer organisation and marketing boards brought deregulation for all sectors except for kiwifruit, where statutory export rights have been granted to a designated exporter. p align="justify">? Efforts for sustainable management of New Zealand s biological and natural resources continued to establish the national frameworks for land and water quality and allocation. A partnership between the dairy industry and both central and local governments has the potential to reduce water pollution. The sustainable farming fund and farm environment awards have made their contribution to the development of sustainable land and water management practices.
? Food safety and biosecurity have been the focus of considerable attention in recent years. The creation of Biosecurity New Zealand consolidated accountability for New Zealand s biosecurity system into a single authority to improve consistency in risk assessment and efforts to deal with unwanted pests and diseases.
? Efforts for environmentally sustainable development should continue. The government s efforts to develop additional market-based approaches to deal with both water quality and quantity issues should be encouraged.
Summary of policy developments [1]
Recent policy initiatives in New Zealand relate to sustainable development, biosecurity controls, and water management. Progress was made over 2005-06 toward establishing a national framework for sustainable development. A package of actions in the sustainable water programme and dairying and clean streams accord which were established in 2003 is now under way. The sustainable farming fund has provided financial grants for the efficient use of water and land during the last seven years. The development of policies on cli...
