NZ's Fonterra to sell China dairy farms for $368m

HAMILTON, Oct 05 (Reuters): New Zealand's Fonterra said on Monday it has agreed to sell its farms in China for a total of NZ$555 million ($367.97 million) as the dairy producer continues to focus on the domestic market and reduce debt.

The company unveiled plans last year to halt overseas expansion after being criticised by the more than 10,000 farmers who make up its cooperative for its foray into countries like China and value added consumer products that were weighing on its profits. "For the last 18 months, we have been reviewing every part of the business to ensure our assets and investments meet the needs of the Co-op today," Chief Executive Officer Miles Hurrell said.

"Selling the farms is in line with our decision to focus on our New Zealand farmers' milk."