The worlds of dairy: Comparing dairy frameworks in Canada and New Zealand in light of future shocks to food systems

Abstract

Purpose - This study compares the historical evolution of two particular models of dairy policy: supply management in Canada and deregulated cooperative monopolisation in New Zealand. Design/methodology/approach - Both cases draw on historical sources and other secondary data. Findings - Despite national adherence to neoliberalism and global trade reform, both Canada and New Zealand have arguably developed dairy sectors that are operating according to unique local dynamics and with vastly different outcomes. The result is a model in Canada which is potentially more resilient to future shocks than the New Zealand model. Originality/value - By identifying the contradictory outcomes of local dairy policy development within a neoliberalist context, the chapter is able to explore the potential resilience of each sector in a way that hasn't been achieved before. Copyright © 2012 by Emerald Group Publishing Limited.