Understanding the trade potential

An agreement between Marlborough and Chinese research centres will benefit New Zealand food producers looking to crack the lucrative market, the region’s MP says.

Kaikoura MP Stuart Smith and officials from the Marlborough Research Centre are travelling to Tianjin, in China, on Saturday to sign a memorandum of understanding with their Chinese counterparts.

Smith said the purpose of the agreement was to discuss regional collaboration around food and beverage processing, which would lead to development opportunities for the region.

The trip would also include discussions around a potential sistercity relationship between Marlborough and Tianjin, a city of about 15 million people on the coast of northern China, Smith said.

‘‘I look forward to fostering a stronger relationship between our regions as we collaborate on business and technology development and science innovation.’’

Marlborough Research Centre chief executive Gerald Hope said the Tianjin trip was a direct result of the relationships fostered through the Premium Foods for China programme.

The programme involved the research centre hiring an associate, Dr James Li, to conduct market research for Marlborough companies in China, including Marlborough Garlic.

As a result of the programme, the garlic company had a Chinese market trial for its Marlborough Garlic Noir product, and had identified a preferred distributor.

Chief executive John Murphy said the Chinese market had huge potential for his company, as there was a large middle class prepared to pay more for premium food products.

‘‘It’s not just a matter of finding customers and outlets full stop, it’s a matter of finding the right ones,’’ he said.

Indecent assault

A Marlborough man has been charged with indecent assault and sexual violation. The man, who cannot be named, appeared in custody at the Blenheim District Court on Tuesday. Police claim he twice sexually violated and twice indecently assaulted the same girl, aged under 12, on Friday. The man was remanded in custody to appear by audio visual link on November 14.

Kaikoura races

The annual Kaikoura Trotting Club meeting is happening on Sunday and Monday. Lower grade horses will be catered for on a six-race twilight programme from 3pm on Sunday. On Monday 10 races, featuring the $50,000 Kaikoura Cup, $50,000 New Zealand Yearling Sales Series Aged Pace and $30,000 South Bay Trotters’ Cup, will be held. For more details visit hrnz.co.nz