New Zealand’s farmers, growers and primary producers are set to drive the economy to new heights, with food and fibre exports forecast to reach a record $62 billion next year.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced the outlook today following the release of the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report, which covers the year to 30 June 2026.
The forecast builds on an estimated $60.4 billion in export earnings this year, with exports expected to rise 3 percent year-on-year and sit 16 percent higher than two years ago.
Treasury expects export revenues to continue climbing, topping $63 billion in the year to June 2027.
McClay said strong global demand, solid prices and favourable growing conditions were positioning the sector well, despite a year marked by global uncertainty and extreme weather events.
Meat and wool exports are forecast to lift 7 percent to $13.2 billion, horticulture exports to rise 5 percent to $9.2 billion, forestry exports to increase 2 percent to $6.3 billion, and dairy exports to edge up 1 percent to $27.4 billion.
The food and fibre sector now accounts for 83 percent of all New Zealand goods exports, underlining its central role in the economy.
McClay said the Government was supporting growth through trade expansion, regulatory reform, improved farm profitability and greater flexibility in land use, arguing that an export-led recovery was helping New Zealand emerge from recession and strengthening rural communities nationwide.
Image credit: Jonathan Bourba
Gosh , Todd, Nicola and Judith all anticipating fabulous growth going forward. Some politicians do their best work in the future tense