- Hon Todd McClay
New Zealand's farmers and growers are powering the economy with exports set to reach a record $64.3 billion, Forestry and Trade Minister Todd McClay announced today.
"The latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report highlights a resilient, high-performing food and fibre sector driving strong demand and prices for New Zealand's world-class products," Mr McClay says.
"Export revenue is forecast to reach $64.3 billion in the year to 30 June 2026, up six per cent, with records across multiple sectors driven by healthy demand for dairy and red meat, alongside bumper kiwifruit and apple crops.
"Kiwi farmers are expected to benefit from strong farmgate returns this year due to high milk prices, record milk production and tight global red meat supplies, which will cushion against shipping and supply chain disruptions from the Middle East conflict.
"Food and fibre exports are expected to lift even further to a record $70.1 billion in the year to 30 June 2030, thanks to our hardworking Kiwi farmers, growers, foresters, fishers and processors."
Key forecasts include:
- dairy export revenue up 5 per cent to reach a record $28.6 billion
- meat and wool export revenue up 14 per cent to a record $14.1 billion
- horticulture export revenue up 7 per cent to a record $9.5 billion
- processed food and other products export revenue increasing 5 per cent to a record $3.5 billion
Mr McClay says the Government continues to back the food and fibre sector's success.
"We are focused on supporting our farmers and growers because when the primary sector does well, it means more jobs, higher wages, and more money flowing through to communities."
It also takes us closer to reaching New Zealand's ambitious goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years.
"This National-led Government will continue to back the sector - including increasing trade opportunities like in India, reducing barriers to trade, and partnering with industry to help meet rising global demand by driving a step change in food and fibre production through greater land use flexibility.
"We are focused on fixing the basics and building the future through sensible reforms across freshwater, resource management and agricultural emissions.
"The Government is laser-focused on delivering more returns to Kiwi food and fibre producers and rural communities, growing the economy, and delivering prosperity for all New Zealanders - fixing the basics and building the future."
The SOPI report was launched today at Fieldays, and is available at: www.mpi.govt.nz/sopi
