Teys Australia invests to reduce carbon footprint
Teys Australia has invested over $60 million AUD to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. The technology allows for the creation of a bio-gas from waste water, reducing fossil fuel energy requirements while creating a sustainable fertilizer product byproduct. The benefits extend to the nearby river systems which flow into the Great Barrier Reef, limiting the amount of potential chemical hazards. Click here to read the full article.
Chinese dairy imports rise predicted to rise in 2016, marginally
The milk powder industry is one of the most important drivers in dairy commodity prices. The period from 2013-2015 saw a peak in Chinese demand for powdered milks which has now left a backlog of inventory and a subsequent slowing of the market. With liquid milk production increasing, local companies look to ‘bank’ powdered supplies, however the specific volume of these inventories are unknown. Current estimates see Australia overtaking US to become the 3rd largest exporter of skim milk powders to China. Click here to read the full article.
PETA aims at the wool industry, again
PETA Australia are again urging consumers to “ditch wool”, after releasing a video allegedly showing mistreatment of livestock. PETA has since filed a complaint with the RSPCA to investigate possible crimes. Wool Producers Australia has deplored any mistreatment of livestock and has urged best practice of husbandry with livestock. The Australian Wool Innovation, a research organization for the wool industry, has invested heavily into sheep health and welfare as well as treatment options for fly-struck livestock. Click here to read the full article
GM fruit fly to deal with fruit fly
Trials of a genetically-modified fly which could exterminate the Mediterranean fruit fly have begun. The latter is currently causing considerable damage to the agricultural industry, in particular orchards in Western Australia. A genetically-modified Mediterranean fruit fly possesses a gene making females incapable of reaching adulthood. These flies will mate with wild Mediterranean fruit flies to pass on the gene, stopping the next generation from reaching maturity and reproducing. The phase out of the insecticide fenthion led to the search for alternatives. Click here to read the full article.
Australia exports Maccas to China
Australia’s macadamia industry has launched a million-dollar advertising campaign in China. The macadamia industry is looking to capitalise on decreasing tariffs associated with the incoming FTA. With already 50% of Australia’s crop exported to Asia, and an increase to China by over 86% in the past two years, exports are expected to increase and the industry predicts exports value will top $1 billion AUD by 2020. Click here to read the full article.
China’s corn to affect Australia’s barley
Feed barley from Western Australia sells for roughly $170 AUD per ton, whilst corn grown in Henan sells for $310 AUD per ton, a relative advantage for Australian barley in the feed grain market. Whilst expected cuts to cost of corn by China to support local growers, Australia’s barley export to China doubled in 2014, and again in 2015. With the demand for barley showing no sign of lessening, coupled with favorable Australian dollar value for exports, the news of a more competitive corn shouldn’t worry Australian barley growers, yet. Click here to read the full article.
