In a landmark move to bolster the agritech sector, New Zealand and the United Kingdom have solidified their commitment to innovation and collaboration through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The agreement, inked between AgriTechNZ and the UK Agri-Tech Centre (UKATC), aims to strengthen ties between the two nations by fostering knowledge exchange, market support, and collaborative research in agricultural technology.
The MoU, described as a “significant milestone” by AgriTechNZ Chair Bridgit Hawkins, establishes a bidirectional pathway for innovation and expertise sharing. “This agreement amplifies opportunities for collaboration and shared solutions to advance agricultural knowledge and innovation,” Hawkins said. “It’s a testament to our mission of fostering global partnerships in the agritech sector.”
Phil Bicknell, Chief Executive of the UK Agri-Tech Centre, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for positive impact. “Working together highlights the importance of partnership in this area and demonstrates the potential benefits for both countries. I look forward to seeing fruitful opportunities develop,” he said.
The agreement outlines several key initiatives, including:
Knowledge exchange: Sharing expertise to drive innovation.
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Market support: Assisting companies in navigating new markets through tailored incubation and resources.
Joint events:Hosting webinars, workshops, and trade missions to strengthen industry connections.
Collaborative research:Tackling mutual priorities through joint projects.
Farm-trial network linkages:Connecting trial networks in both countries, enabling innovators to test solutions across hemispheres.
Funding opportunities: Exploring joint bids for Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation funding programme.
Under the agreement, UKATC will support New Zealand companies entering the UK market, while AgriTechNZ will assist UK companies in New Zealand, ensuring mutual benefits from shared expertise.
The partnership aims to empower businesses, enhance productivity, and drive sustainable agricultural practices.
Iona Thomas, OBE, British High Commissioner to New Zealand, praised the collaboration, stating, “This agreement will help farmers and innovators on both sides of the world.
It’s great to see New Zealand and British organisations working together for the greater good, fostering innovation and sustainability that benefits farmers, trade, and ecosystems.”
New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Agriculture, Todd McClay, also highlighted the significance of the partnership. “Technology and collaboration are key to advancing innovative primary production and doubling export value.
This growing partnership between UK and NZ agritech organisations will deliver robust outcomes for farmers, trade, and ecosystems globally,” he said.
The MoU marks a new chapter in agritech collaboration, positioning New Zealand and the UK as leaders in driving sustainable and innovative solutions for the global agricultural sector.