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newsletter #51 for Wenesday, November 8th, 2023

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Bloomfield spearheads WHO health regs overhaul

Dr Ashley Bloomfield co-chairs WHO group revising international health protocols. Proposed revisions are aimed at strengthening International Health Regulations post-COVID. ‘One Health’ initiative aims to integrate health policy with climate action. Concerns arise over national sovereignty vs. WHO’s expanded role, but what is the reality? How real is the threat digital health certificates will curtail travel and personal freedoms?

NZ supermarket duopoly challenging to overcome

NZ’s supermarket duopoly (Woolworths NZ and Foodstuffs) has 80% of the market. The Grocery Industry Competition Act is meant to help open the field, but its effect remains to be seen. Shaking up entrenched loyalty to traditional brands is difficult.

Economic Update: IMF review of New Zealand’s economy focuses on the impact of the Reserve Bank

IMF cites NZ’s intentional recession tactics. Housing affordability, inflation concerns persist. 1% growth forecasted for 2024. Effects of high interest rates are now unfolding. Mortgages strain households; property value stabilises with immigration. NZ unemployment now nearly 4%, modestly overshooting prediction. KiwiSaver funds decline and clean energy stocks drop. NZ share market struggling.

NZ pork industry in a tug of war between quality vs cost

NZ pig farmers face imported pork competition with lower costs. Environmental concerns and unclear origin labels create challenges for industry. Proposed pig welfare code changes await government decision. Public opinion favours animal welfare, but with an eye on economics.

"Failure plus reflection equals progress."

-Anonymous

NZ News Essentials Ltd.

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