Ministry for Primary Industries

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is a pivotal government entity situated in Wellington, New Zealand. It maintains a comprehensive network of regional offices and laboratories throughout the country, which are vital for effective monitoring and management. These facilities ensure food safety, biosecurity, and animal welfare, all of which are key components of the dairy sector.

Financial Indicators

While MPI is not a profit-driven entity, its regulatory role significantly impacts the financial health of New Zealand's dairy sector. In 2022, the value of dairy exports was approximately NZD 20 billion, underscoring the sector's robustness and the importance of MPI's governance.

Significant Events

MPI has been instrumental in addressing challenges within the dairy industry. Notably, during the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak in 2017, the Ministry's prompt and effective response mitigated the outbreak's impact, ensuring no recurrence and maintaining New Zealand's reputation for safe and high-quality dairy products.

Company Plans and Initiatives

MPI is committed to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of New Zealand's primary industries, including the dairy sector. The Ministry's key initiatives focus on promoting sustainable farming practices, improving biosecurity measures, and transitioning towards a low-emissions economy.

Central to MPI's strategic objectives is collaboration with industry stakeholders and investment in science and technology. In partnership with DairyNZ and LIC, MPI is a governmental partner in the Resilient Dairy Programme, aimed at improving dairy herd fertility and performance in New Zealand.

Additionally, the Ministry has initiated a statutory review of the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act, led by Agriculture Minister Todd McClay. This review will examine the necessity and effectiveness of the current competition provisions regulating the dairy cooperative Fonterra. MPI is monitoring feedback from the dairy sector, which could lead to a broader review of New Zealand's dairy export competitiveness.

The Ministry for Primary Industries forecasts New Zealand's dairy export earnings to reach $31 billion by 2030. This projection is part of the latest Situation and Outlook Report for Primary Industries (SOPI), highlighting the importance of dairy as a cornerstone of the country's export economy.

Modified: 2026/06/30