The Food and Fibre CEs, with the support of Muka Tangata Workforce Development Council, are developing a Food and Fibre Workforce Capability Strategy to support the future food and fibre workforce and support the goal of doubling the value of exports.
The Strategy is a sector-led call to action that will advocate for investment in workforce capability and identify key changes required to reduce barriers to training.
The Government has an aspirational target of doubling exports by 2034, including food and fibre exports, which accounted for 81 per cent of all goods exports in 2024. Achieving this goal requires new technology, simplifying regulations, securing strong trade deals, strengthening supply chains, and building strong partnerships. Developing a skilled, adaptable workforce with the right training is central to these changes.
The Strategy outlines how government, industry, and providers can work together to build the skills we need.
Read the Food and Fibre Workforce Capability Strategy ›
We want to hear from you about the draft actions in the Strategy to make sure that they meet your needs.
Please send your suggestions and feedback to [email protected] ›
To ensure timely processing of pre-moderation, consent to assess, microcredential support and programme endorsement applications before the disestablishment of Muka Tangata, we encourage providers to submit all relevant assessment materials and applications by October 3, 2025.
We will continue to process applications after this date, but we cannot guarantee they will be completed before Muka Tangata finishes operations on 19 December 2025. Any in-flight submissions will be handed over to the newly established Industry Skills Board for completion.
We encourage you to contact us at the earliest opportunity if you have any questions about this, or want to discuss any proposed submissions.
