Following two difficult seasons that were affected by poor weather, production is set to rebound as Asian markets beckon
New Zealand is on course to produce around 7mn trays of avocados this season, a notable increase on the 5mn trays it harvested last year, according to industry body New Zealand Avocado.
The association’s marketing and communications manager Matthew Ball told the New Zealand Herald that a feeling of optimism had returned to the business after two challenging campaigns hampered by Cyclones Dovi and Gabrielle.
“These weather events created tough conditions for growers, but resilience within the sector remains strong,” he said. “As the industry continues to adapt and innovate, New Zealand avocados remain highly regarded both domestically and internationally, reinforcing their position as a premium, sustainably grown fruit.”
At least half of New Zealand’s avocado production is shipped overseas, and mainly to Australia, with the remainder sold on the domestic market.
However, Ball indicated that certain markets in Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, would play a role in helping the country to grow its exports.
