In today’s talking points: Australian farms set to become more productive thanks to driverless tractors; China looking to improve cattle genetics; High demand for Australian abalone in China and Japan markets; Success of World Bank funded co-operative farm project
A cane property in Mackay in north Queensland is about to make an Australian first as an autonomous tractor begins its trial. The technology, which uses GPS tracking was designed in a joint operation between Japan’s Hokkaido University and Japanese firm Hitachi. It can autonomously plough, sow or spray crops at the farmer’s will. From the tractors trial onward, all that remains is fine-tuning and commercialisation. The technology was not originally designed for agriculture and is currently breaking new ground on the property. It is hoped the technology can relieve some of the grunt work from an aging industry.
Read more at: ABC news
China looking to improve cattle genetics
A recent agreement sees Canada exchanging information in cattle genetics, beef marketing and technology with China. The move will the agriculture university in Beijing build a nearby model farm, specialising in research education commercialisation. The farm is set to become the model farm for other farms to replicate. While China is trying to improve its domestic cattle herd, it is unlikely to ever be self-sustaining. Imports of beef from other countries will continue. The exchange of information, among other programs is set to last for four years.
Read more at: Producer
Success of World Bank funded co-operative farm project
The World Bank’s farmer’s co-operative initiative, ‘Guizhou Rural Development Project’ in China’s poorest province, Guizhou is seeing positive results. The project has created 38 new farm co-operatives that allows them access to markets and modern value chains. The provides training to the co-operatives on how to raise and treat chickens in addition to offering alternatives to restructure and modernise the process of agricultural production. The project is seeing a return of profits and involves women in the decision-making process. The access to markets and result of profitability allows parents to stay close to their families in the country. To conclude, the Guizhou Rural Development Project is seeing positive results in profitability and is one step closer to China’s goal of eliminating poverty by 2020.
Read more at: World Bank
High demand for Australian abalone in China and Japan markets
Western Australia’s Ocean Grown Abalone is preparing for a $15mill IPO. This is a result China and Japan’s demand for seafood delicacies. Almost 100% of green lipped abalone was being sold to consumers in China, Hong Kong and Japan. Ocean Grown Abalone is the first Abalone ranch and has eyes on expanding. Ocean Grown Abalone is hoping see the success like Blackmores and Bellamy’s from the demand in quality product in China. However, will need to be mindful in the regulatory changes imposed for e-commerce imported products.
Read more at: Australian Financial Review