Minister to represent NZ at APEC food security meeting

Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard is in China to represent New Zealand at the 11th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Food Security Ministerial Meeting (FSMM).

“The FSMM is an important regional forum that promotes economic growth, trade, and cooperation,” says Mr Hoggard.

“It brings together 21 member economies to discuss regional and global food security challenges, share policy approaches, and strengthen relationships and cooperation.

“New Zealand’s presence at the FSMM will reinforce our support for open, rules-based trade and resilient food systems to support access to safe and nutritious food.”

Mr Hoggard says the FSMM provides an important forum to discuss ways to tackle shared challenges and maximise opportunities across the APEC region.

“Collectively, APEC economies account for nearly half of global food trade and will continue to play an important role in improving food security outcomes.”

“The FSMM provides an important platform for economies to exchange experiences and work together to build resilient food systems and strengthen preparedness.

“This includes promoting sustainable agriculture, innovation, and digitalisation to boost agricultural productivity, while strengthening resilience to climate change, resource constraints, pests and diseases, and supply chain disruptions that continue to challenge food production systems.

“Across APEC, we have a wealth of knowledge and expertise, and we can achieve more by working together.

“New Zealand is committed to supporting access to safe, nutritious food across the APEC region,” says Mr Hoggard.

In China, Mr Hoggard will also participate in bilateral meetings and meet with stakeholders including the New Zealand Business Roundtable in China and New Zealand business leaders.

Mr Hoggard returns from China on 28 August.