Roadmap set to double hort exports by 2035
It's critical that the horticulture sector works together as part of a goal to double the sector’s exports by 2035.
New Zealand’s horticulture sector is projected to reach a record $8 billion by 30 June 2025.
According to the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report from the Ministry for Primary Industries, kiwifruit exports are set to exceed $3 billion for the first time.
Apple and Pear exports are also predicted to increase, this time to $1 billion.
Fresh and processed vegetable export revenue is expected to rebound and increase by 7%, reaching $770 million while cherries are forecast to increase 7% to $98 million.
A forecast rebound for avocados will see export revenue increasing 147% to $91 million.
Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott says this is “great news” for grower who she says have demonstrated resilience following the extreme weather challenges of 2023.
“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 says.
“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 adds.
Scott says the report reinforces Horticulture New Zealand’s confidence in the sector’s potential to double farm gate revenue by 2035, in line with the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan unveiled last year.
“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,” she says.
“The sector remains committed to collaborating with the Government to ensure horticulture’s continued success, benefiting New Zealand’s economy, environment, and communities,” Scott concludes.
A landmark New Zealand trial has confirmed what many farmers have long suspected - that strategic spring nitrogen use not only boosts pasture growth but delivers measurable gains in lamb growth and ewe condition.
It was recently announced that former MP and Southland farmer Eric Roy has stepped down of New Zealand Pork after seven years. Leo Argent talks with Eric about his time at the organisation and what the future may hold.
It's critical that the horticulture sector works together as part of a goal to double the sector’s exports by 2035.
RaboResearch, the research arm of specialist agriculture industry banker Rabobank, sees positives for the Alliance Group in its proposed majority-stake sale to Ireland's Dawn Meats.
The ACT Party's call for a better deal on the Paris Agreement on climate change is being backed by farmer organisations.
A 50% tariff slapped by the US on goods from India last month has opened an opportunity for New Zealand wool carpets exports to North America.
OPINION: One particular bone the Hound has been gnawing on for years now is how the chattering classes want it…
OPINION: Our Aussie mates never miss a chance to put one over us, as seen in a recent op-ed by…