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Hi-Cane debate casts pall over kiwifruit sector

Industry insiders say growers risk losses without the chemical bud breaker, but a union representing workers questions the validity of those threats.

The EPA is launching hearings on hydrogen cyanamide to assess its future in New Zealand horticulture.

Kate McVicar Thu, 22 Feb 2024
Key points
  • What’s at stake: A horticulture growth stimulant is up for reassessment this year and may be banned. The decision could impact kiwifruit growers, growing regions, local communities, and workers. 
  • Background: Hydrogen Cyanamide has been in use since the 1980s. Industry players say hundreds of growers could become unprofitable without it, but worker advocates and local communities want it banned for health and safety reasons. 
  • Main players: First Union, Anita Rosentreter, NZ Kiwifruit Growers Industry, Colin Bond, Seeka, Michael Franks, the Environmental Protection Authority. 

Kiwifruit growers say they risk falling into the red and exiting the industry if the use of hydrogen cyanamide on their orchards is banned, but those opposed to the chemical refute that threat.

The use of the bud-breaking stimulant is up in the air with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)

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Kate McVicar Thu, 22 Feb 2024
Contact the Writer: kate@nbr.co.nz
News tip? Question? Typo? Let us know: editor@nbr.co.nz
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Key points
  • What’s at stake: A horticulture growth stimulant is up for reassessment this year and may be banned. The decision could impact kiwifruit growers, growing regions, local communities, and workers. 
  • Background: Hydrogen Cyanamide has been in use since the 1980s. Industry players say hundreds of growers could become unprofitable without it, but worker advocates and local communities want it banned for health and safety reasons. 
  • Main players: First Union, Anita Rosentreter, NZ Kiwifruit Growers Industry, Colin Bond, Seeka, Michael Franks, the Environmental Protection Authority. 

Hi-Cane debate casts pall over kiwifruit sector
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