New report projects New Zealand horticulture export revenue to reach NZ$8bn
New Zealand’s horticulture sector continues to surge, with export revenue projected to reach a record NZ$8bn (US$4.5bn), a 12 per cent increase by 30 June 2025.
The sector’s export forecasts were released in the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report, provided by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
The report predicts kiwifruit exports are set to exceed NZ$3bn (US$1.7bn) for the first time and apple and pear exports are set to exceed NZ$1bn (US$560mn), reflecting strong international demand for New Zealand’s premium produce.
Fresh and processed vegetable export revenue is expected to rebound and increase by 7 per cent reaching NZ$770mn (US$443mn) while cherries are forecast to increase 7 per cent to NZ$98mn (US$55mn). A forecast rebound for avocados will see export revenue increasing 147 per cent to NZ$91mn (US$51mn).
“This is excellent news for our growers, who have demonstrated remarkable resilience, particularly following the extreme weather challenges of 2023,” said Kate Scott, chief executive of Horticulture 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.”
Scott said the sector remains committed to collaborating with the New Zealand government to ensure horticulture’s continued success, benefiting New Zealand’s economy, environment, and communities
“We want New Zealand to thrive by sharing our world-class kiwifruit, apples, avocados, onions, cherries, and other produce with millions of consumers globally,” she said.
“This report reinforces our confidence in the sector’s potential to double farmgate revenue by 2035, in line with the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan. To achieve this, we need the government to support our industry by fostering resilience to climate change, protecting vital vegetable growing areas, investing in sustainable land and water use, and accelerating research and development.”
The report shows the horticulture industry remaining the third largest earner of export revenue in the food and fibre sector for 2025/26.
