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.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.
Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) says it is backing aspiring dairy farmers through a new initiative designed to make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking easier.
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