FULL SHOW - 9th April 2026

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect: Thursday 9th April 2026 Today we examine the volatility of global trade, the heated debate over animal welfare standards, and a scientific breakthrough in managing facial eczema. Hon Todd McClay (Minister of Agriculture & Trade) Fresh from a recent trade mission, the Minister discusses the impact of the Middle East conflict on NZ exporters and the realistic status of an India Free Trade Agreement. Bevan Weir (Bioeconomy Science Institute) Groundbreaking research reveals we may have been counting the wrong fungal spores for 70 years. Discover why "facial eczema" needs a new name and a new management approach. Karl Dean (Federated Farmers) The Feds explain their controversial opposition to restricting low-welfare imports, sparking a public debate with domestic producers over trade principles versus local fairness. Jasper van Halder (Agnition Ventures) A new UK–NZ pilot program brings proven agritech to Kiwi farms. We ask: will this solve real problems or just add to the digital "talkfest"? Brent Kleiss (CEO, NZ Pork) A direct rebuttal to the Feds' position. NZ Pork argues that local farmers shouldn't have to compete against imported products that don't meet NZ’s legal welfare standards. Cristina Alvarado (NZX) Analysis of the latest GDT result (down 3.4%) and how geopolitical nerves are hitting dairy fats harder than powders. Ed Harrison (BakerAg) A "sharp rebound" in sheep and beef profitability. We discuss whether this is a genuine recovery or just relief after two brutal seasons. Damien O’Connor (Labour MP for Waitaki) Damien recently released a scathing video of cattle on a Pamu farm to highlight his dislike of a centralised farming approach from Wellington. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.