A new research network has been established to help New Zealand food exports double in value over the next 15 years.
Food HQ was launched last week with the aim of growing export revenue to NZ$60bn (US$47bn) by 2025.
The predominantly virtual organisation will collate research from a number of leading New Zealand companies and bodies, including Fonterra, AgResearch, Plant & Food Research, the Riddet Institute and Massey University.
Food HQ will be based at Massey’s Palmerston North campus, which is set to undergo a NZ$250m (US$196m) upgrade over the next 20 years to house 4000 researchers involved in the agri-food value chain.
Food HQ project manager Mark Ward told Fairfax New Zealand the super campus would give global customers a “one-door access to the very best in New Zealand food innovation.”
Massey University assistant vice-chancellor Stuart Morris suggested collaboration was the key to meeting the ambitious export target.
“Our best way to make an impact is for all our food organisations to work together,” Morris said.
