According to data from Trading Economics, New Zealand's export value reached a record high of NZ$6.953 billion in May 2023, ending the year on a similarly good note with a total value of NZ$5.85 billion in December 2023. These numbers signal New Zealand’s contribution to global markets in myriad ways, as well as the opportunities available to local export businesses wanting to expand to international markets.
As a primarily trade dependent economy, New Zealand has always relied heavily on exports, especially to top export trading partners like Australia, China, and the United States. New Zealand Foreign Affairs & Trade (MFAT) estimates the country’s major primary sectors of meat, dairy, fisheries, wine, forestry, and selected horticulture products to export up to 95% of their output, revealing how crucial exports are to the very industries that characterise the island nation.
As we enter 2024, Trading Economics forecasts New Zealand’s export values to be NZ$6.45 billion by the end of Q1, marking an optimistic outlook for export companies across the country.
In order to support these companies in their international ambitions, we’ve compiled a guide to New Zealand’s five major export categories looking at their upcoming trends in global demand.
Read on to find out how your export business can break into the international market, putting your – and New Zealand’s – name on the global map.
1. Dairy produce and animal products
MFAT estimates New Zealand to be the 2nd largest dairy exporter, 1st largest dairy product exporter, and 2nd biggest wool exporter in the world – reflecting a top-of-class standing that continues to drive international demand. The country’s other standout products include cheese and honey, particularly Manuka honey, which have experienced global rises in demand in recent years.
A key factor leading to these successes is a foundation of sustainability and ethical farming practices. Strict environmental regulations ensure farmers minimise their impact on the land and waterways, while also prioritising animal welfare and biodiversity conservation.
Looking ahead, these industries are poised for continued growth driven by ongoing sustainability innovation, investment in research and development, and strategic market expansion efforts. Undergirded by a commitment to excellence and reputation for quality, milk, dairy, and animal product exporters can remain well-positioned to maintain leadership across global markets.
2. Meat and edible meat offal
The meat industry is another of New Zealand’s key exports, particularly for beef, lamb, and venison. Sustainability and ethical farming are integral factors to success here, with farmers commonly employing techniques such as rotational grazing, pasture-based farming, and biodiversity enhancement. Strict adherence to quality and safety standards are also maintained, pegged to the highest international standards.
With growing demand from both traditional and emerging markets, the outlook for this sector remains optimistic. As consumers worldwide increasingly seek high-quality, ethically sourced meat products, New Zealand export businesses are well-positioned to capitalise on these trends and maintain a reputation as a trusted supplier of premium meat products globally.
3. Wood and articles of wood
New Zealand’s vast forests and sustainable forestry practices ensure a steady supply of high-quality wood and lumber products for both domestic consumption and international markets, including timber, logs, pulp, paper, and wood-based panels. These products are used in various industries, such as construction, furniture manufacturing, and packaging, with key export markets including China, Australia, the United States, and Japan.
As such, the country’s forestry and wood products sector remain a cornerstone of its export economy, contributing significantly to the country's GDP and employment. According to Stat NZ in January 2024 alone, the value of logs, wood, and wood article exports was estimated at NZ$15 million, a 5.4% increase from January 2023.
Global demand is also generally on the rise, driven by factors such as urbanisation, infrastructure development, and the increasing popularity of sustainable building materials. Forest owners are required to adhere to sustainable harvesting practices, minimise waste, and protect biodiversity – all of which endear them to environmentally conscious consumers worldwide. Additionally, New Zealand has implemented certification schemes such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) to provide further third-party assurance to consumers regarding the sustainability of its wood products.
Businesses in the industry looking to expand their export profile should consider developing these sustainable practices further, highlighting the unique aspects of New Zealand timber to maintain their favourable position in the global market.
4. Fruits, nuts, and peel of citrus fruits or melons
New Zealand’s temperate climate and fertile soils provide ideal growing conditions for a variety of horticultural crops, allowing the country to produce high-quality produce year-round. This has led to great diversity and innovation in its horticultural exports sector, with a wide range of fruits, nuts, and citrus products internationally shipped to markets around the world. Key export products include kiwi fruit, apples, avocados, berries, and nuts, among others, with the industry particularly renowned for its focus on quality, freshness, and flavour.
In recent years, factors such as consumer awareness of health and wellness, changing dietary preferences, and the desire for natural, sustainably, and ethically sourced products have all driven growing demand for New Zealand’s premium fruits and nuts. Locally, research has been focussed on improving crop yields, enhancing product quality, and developing new varieties, all of which enhance companies’ ability to cater to both local and international demand. Sustainability practices like integrated pest management, water conservation, and soil health management further help to minimise environmental impact, further strengthening the sector’s robustness at home and abroad.
As global demand for fresh, high-quality produce continues to rise, exporters are well-positioned to maintain the country’s reputation as a premium supplier of fruits, nuts, and citrus products.
