Executive Summary
2. In May 2004 Cabinet agreed that sector engagement was a useful tool for economic development and also agreed to a formal framework for conducting such engagement processes. Cabinet also directed MED, MAF and NZTE, in conjunction with key government agencies to report to Ministers with a proposal for engaging with the Food and Beverage sector by 30 August 2004, with a subsequent report to Cabinet by 30 September 2004. [CBC (04) 70 refers]
3. Consultation by officials with sector stakeholders confirms that there is significant support for engagement with the Food and Beverage sector, so long as key sector players are involved and government is willing to engage on the whole range of issues of interest to the sector.
4. Stakeholder feedback indicates that the sector has considerable potential to grow. There is sympathy among stakeholders for the idea that focusing the resources of industry, government, science and education in partnership will optimise the sector's efforts to access and exploit market opportunities. Collaboration on this scale will be a first for the industry.
5. This paper recommends a process and structure for the engagement, including proposals for Ministerial and Government agency leadership, the proposed composition and operation of the engagement "Taskforce", administrative arrangements and indicative timelines. Terms of reference for the Food and Beverage engagement are attached as Annex 1, and a list of recommended candidates for Taskforce membership, including for the position of private sector Co-Chair are attached as Annex 2 and Annex 3. A process for appointing the Taskforce is also outlined.
Back to Top