MARKETING PRODUCE

Taranaki Daily News, 21 December 1921, Page 4

MARKETING PRODUCE

The statement made, by Mr. Massey,. in the House on Monday, relative to marketing the Dominion’s produce, together with the Government’s proposals for overcoming the present unfavorable and unsatisfactory methods, emphasise the seriousness of the position. In the face of increasing competition New Zealand producers will need exceptional organisation, as well as the aid of all the support the Government can provide in order

to pay their way,, and secure a fair return for their exports. The scheme outlined consists mainly of pooling produce, guaranteed grading by experts, and regulating the supply on the overseas market, Recording to requirements. The

prosperity of the producers depends on the quantity and quality of the produce, and the price received. Whether the pooling scheme will obtain the desired end is a matter which the producers must consider and decide. It has advantages and disadvantages, and these have to be carefully weighed. Pooling destroys the identity of produce, consequently if the grading in New Zealand is accepted by the Home buyers (which by no mean.? follows) the produce will be sold on its merits. Probably that system, which is theoretically sound, would answer as well as it answers in respect of dairy produce. At the same time, even with, a Government guarantee, there may not be a favorable market at all times for our produce as is the case to-day. There can be no question that the most promising factor in securing a better return for produce is concentrating in the first place on reducing the many charges incidental to the conversion of the raw product into a marketable commodity, its transport and subsequent handling overseas. The ultimate sale price is a matter beyond control at this end, but organisation can do much if wisely and energetically directed. The Government has properly taken the matter up in the desire to help the producers, and if both co-operate wholeheartedly and on good business lines a real benefit to all concerned should result.