Further record year for New Zealand horticultural exports

A new report forecasting strong export growth for New Zealand’s horticulture sector reinforces the industry’s growing importance to the national economy, says Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report projects horticulture export revenue to increase by 19 per cent in the year to 30 June 2025, reaching $8.5 billion.

This growth is primarily driven by the kiwifruit industry, with exports expected to reach $3.9 billion, following a record 2024 crop with forecasts for an even larger crop in 2025.

Apple and pear export revenue is forecast to increase 18 per cent to $1.1 billion (the first time it has passed $1 billion), supported by increases in export volume and average price.

Vegetable exports are forecast to grow eight percent to $770 million, driven by increases in export volume and firm pricing for frozen and processed products.

HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott says the forecast is great news for growers, regional economies and the New Zealand economy.

“The horticulture sector continues to go from strength to strength. Our growers, exporters and supply chain partners deserve huge credit for their resilience and commitment to delivering world-class products from New Zealand.

“However, it is important to remember that greater export revenue for the horticulture sector does not necessarily translate into greater profitability for growers because they are facing increased costs of production, so we need to ensure that value is also returned to growers.

“The ability to grow the sector into the future is directly related to the profitability of horticulture businesses.”

The strong outlook supports the sector’s target of doubling farmgate value by 2035, as outlined in the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan, says Scott.

“It also reinforces the need for policy settings that enable the sector to grow nutritious, affordable fruit and vegetables.

“The Government’s proposed changes to the National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land -- including recognising the national importance of vegetable production and enabling water storage and managed aquifer recharge -- are a positive step in the right direction.”