SCRAMBLE FOR MEAT.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume VLI, Issue 3323, 26 April 1935, Page 7

SCRAMBLE FOR MEAT.

It is claimed by interests in the meat export trade that buying operations in New Zealand this season have been something like a scramble for supplies, due indirectly to quota fears. It is realised that if restrictions are placed on the export of meat to Great Britain the Meat Producers Board or some other official organisation will have to control the buying and exporting trade. According to views expressed recently this has resulted in some firms making every effort to increase their turnover in order to claim a larger share of the trade, if it is apportioned. Competition for supplies has been very keen in the Auckland province during the current season (says the “New Zealand Herald”), and buyers have often found it ■ necessary to advance their limits higher than intended in order to maintain their connections. This keenness cannot be attributed wholly to the tone of the London market, it is claimed. It is stated that the “on hooks” prices paid, after allow ing for exchange and for costs and other charges, have been consistently above London parity. Some firms fear that they will lose on a good deal of their business this season.

It is stated that the producers in New Zealand are receiving higher prices comparatively than those in other meat exporting countries. Probably the most severe competition exists in the market for pigs. There is no definite buying schedule 1 in existence, and the limits being paid vary.