Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand’s primary exports are forecast to hit a record $60 billion by 30 June 2025. This represents a 12 percent jump from last year’s $53.3 billion.
MPI Director-General Ray Smith called the result a “blockbuster year.”
Dairy alone is projected to deliver $27 billion in exports, up 16 percent from $23.3 billion, while horticulture is expected to rise 19 percent to $8.4 billion, nearly half of which comes from kiwifruit. Sheep, beef and wool exports are also up slightly to $12.3 billion.
The figures come from MPI’s Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report, released at Fieldays by Agriculture Minister Todd McClay. Smith credited a global protein shortage and rising demand for New Zealand’s reputation for safe, nutritious, high-quality food.
“People are recognising the value of NZ products,” Smith said. “We’ve been through a tough period, but we are now on the way up.” He also praised growers and processors across the country for their resilience during difficult years.
The growth spans nearly every sector. Even struggling crops like avocados are showing recovery.
Agriculture Minister McClay said the numbers reflect “the hard work and resilience” of rural New Zealand. He pointed out strong global demand and healthy prices as drivers of the surge and said the government’s priority is to open new markets and back exporters through its new Investment Boost tax incentive.
