MAF to become Ministry for Primary Industries

MAF has changed its name and will now be called the Ministry for Primary Industries – better reflecting the importance of the whole primary sector to New Zealand’s economy.

The Ministry for Primary Industries will encompass all Government work including agricultural, horticultural, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry and food sectors, as well as biosecurity and animal welfare.

The name change is a logical move. It recognises the broad role the Ministry has of growing and protecting the primary sector, the powerhouse of New Zealand’s economy.

Importantly it provides the different parts of the organisation with a single unifying identity to champion the sector.

The new name will come into effect on 30 April 2012.