HortNZ welcomes report forecasting further export growth for sector

A new report projecting further strong growth in horticulture export revenue underlines the increasing importance of the sector to the New Zealand economy, says Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report forecasts horticulture export revenue will increase seven percent to $9.5 billion in the year to 30 June 2026 and grow to more than $9.7 billion for the year to 30 June 2027.

Kiwifruit export revenue is expected to grow 16 percent to $4.8 billion in the year to 30 June 2026, with steady growth in production along with growing market demand.

A record export volume of apples and pears is anticipated for the 2026 crop, due to favourable growing conditions and maturing orchards. Export revenue is forecast to rise six percent to $1.3 billion in the year to 30 June 2026.

Vegetable exports are expected to ease three per cent to $710 million with a further decline in 2027 before recovery. A return to growth depends on input costs easing and processing capacity restored.

HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott said the SOPI forecasts show the importance of the right policy settings being in place to enable the sector to continue providing quality fruit and vegetables for New Zealand and the world.

“This outlook reinforces just how important horticulture is to New Zealand, both in feeding people well and in generating value across the economy.

“The sector has set an ambitious target of doubling the farmgate value of horticulture production by 2035, and that will take a coordinated effort across Government, growers, Māori, researchers and the wider industry.

“Reaching that goal will depend on practical decisions that make it easier to grow food and invest with confidence, from stronger biosecurity and access to crop protection tools, to reliable water, a capable workforce and the infrastructure the sector needs.”

Greater export gains do not necessarily translate into stronger profitability for growers when input costs such as fuel, freight and other essentials remain elevated, said Scott.

“Vegetable growers, in particular, are under pressure as high input costs and processing constraints weigh heavily on returns.

“That’s why it is so important growers have the right support and sensible regulatory settings so they can continue to strengthen regional economies, support domestic food supply and lift export performance over the long term.”