Core Insights - Hema has established a strategic partnership with Silver Fern Farms, New Zealand's largest red meat exporter, to directly source high-quality chilled beef and lamb, signing an order worth 80 million yuan [1][3] - The partnership aims to enhance the supply chain strength of Hema's imported chilled beef and lamb while allowing Silver Fern Farms to deepen its market presence in China [4][5] Group 1: Partnership Details - The order signed between Hema and Silver Fern Farms is valued at 80 million yuan, marking a significant step in their collaboration [1][3] - Silver Fern Farms' CEO, Dan Boulton, emphasized that China is a key market for their global operations, aiming for long-term cooperation through the China International Import Expo [3] Group 2: Market Dynamics - In 2024, New Zealand's red meat export value is projected to reach 9.86 billion NZD, with China accounting for 2.49 billion NZD, making it the second-largest market [3] - The demand for high-quality imported chilled beef in China has been growing, with a shift towards a more diversified range of beef import sources [3][4] Group 3: Product Offerings - Hema is introducing a range of products, including grass-fed beef, which is lower in fat and higher in protein, catering to the growing health-conscious consumer segment [4][5] - The introduction of Silver Fern Farms' grass-fed beef products aims to complement Hema's existing offerings of grain-fed beef, providing consumers with more diverse and tailored choices [4][5] Group 4: Strategic Expansion - Silver Fern Farms is expanding its processing facilities across China, moving beyond its previous focus on East China to reach consumers in various regions [4] - Hema continues to seek high-quality beef sources globally, including organic beef from Xinjiang and premium Australian beef, to build a comprehensive beef supply matrix [5]