2024 red meat exports end on a high
New Zealand's red meat exports for 2024 finished on a positive note, with total export value increasing 17% over last December to reach $1.04 billion, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
Cheese exports rose $763 million (35%) in the 12 months to May 2023, compared with the previous year, according to figures released by Stats NZ.
Over the same period, cheese quantities exported rose 6.9%, and the average price per kilogram rose 26%.
“Cheese has become an even more valuable export for New Zealand over the last year, reflecting the higher prices that are being experienced globally,” says international trade manager Al Allen.
Cheddar cheese made up 43% of total cheese exported or $1.3 billion and was the top category exported in the year to May 2023.
Fresh cheese (mainly mozzarella and cream cheese) made up 18% ($528 million), and grated or powdered cheese made up 15% ($456 million) of the total.
China was the leading destination for cheese exported. There was $784 million worth of cheese exported to China (26% of total cheese exports). Japan made up 18% ($530 million) of total exports and Australia made up 11% (336 million).
“There were over 70 destinations that New Zealand cheese has been exported to in the past year,” Allen says.
In terms of value, cheddar was the top cheese export to Japan ($249 million), Australia ($211 million), and Korea ($151 million) in the 12 months to May 2023, whereas the top cheese exports to China was fresh cheese ($264 million) followed by grated or powdered cheese ($238 million).
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand's trade interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely.
New Zealand's red meat sector says it is disappointed by the United States' decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports.
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