Maori leaders to drive growth through science
The Federation of Maori Authorities says supporting the world's top agricultural biotechnology conference being held in Rotorua in September is an opportunity to connect its members with the best minds in the business.
The Federation has come on board as a Platinum sponsor of ABIC (Agricultural Biotechnology International Conference) 2012, which will bring industry leaders, researchers and scientists, investors and policy makers from around the world to New Zealand. ABIC 2012 is hosted by NZBIO, the New Zealand biotechnology industry association. The Federation of Maori Authorities represents New Zealand businesses with a combined asset base valued at NZ$8 billion, much of which comes from interests in seafood, forestry, dairy, sheep and beef, horticulture and energy.
Federation chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana says the conference presents an exciting opportunity for the Federation to grow and advance Maori-owned agri-business through sharing science and biotechnology knowledge and networks.
"Maori have a saying that 'with your basket of knowledge and ours, the people will prosper' and our Federation sees this conference as a step in that direction.
"Through science, the Maori economy will grow, so it is vital that the Federation, as the largest network of Maori businesses, is a key player in this conference."
Mr Karaitiana says Maori also have much to offer international guests attending ABIC 2012.
"We will bring a unique element to the discussion because of our cultural and environmental values where taking care of the land that we operate businesses on is just as important as making a profit."
NZBIO Chief Executive Dr Suzanne Bertrand has welcomed the Federation's involvement in ABIC 2012.
"This is an extremely positive confirmation that Maori agbiotech business will be playing an integral role in the development of the future knowledge-intensive bio-economy.
"Having them on board is enlarging our knowledge base and allowing us to have an all-encompassing view of the industry," Dr Bertrand said.
ABIC 2012 takes place from 2 - 6 September and its theme is Adapting to a Changing World. The Ministry of Science and Innovation is a major sponsor of the event.
To view the programme for ABIC 2012, visit: www.abic2012.com/index.cfm/programme/
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