In 2024, New Zealand’s export economy remained robust, with a strong emphasis on agricultural and food products. The top ten export categories by value were:
- Dairy, Eggs, and Honey – US$12.4 billion (29.3% of total exports)
This category includes concentrated milk, butter, cheese, and honey, underscoring New Zealand’s global leadership in dairy exports. - Meat – US$5.2 billion (12.3%)
Key exports comprise frozen beef and sheep or goat meat, reflecting the country’s significant meat production industry. - Fruits and Nuts – US$2.9 billion (6.8%)
Notably, kiwifruit exports exceeded US$3 billion for the first time, driven by the popularity of the SunGold variety. - Wood – US$2.9 billion (6.8%)
Exports include rough wood and sawn timber, highlighting New Zealand’s forestry sector. - Cereal/Milk Preparations – US$1.6 billion (3.9%)
This encompasses processed foods derived from cereals and milk. - Beverages, Spirits, and Vinegar – US$1.5 billion (3.5%)
Wine is a significant contributor, with exports valued at US$1.29 billion, particularly to markets like the United States. - Machinery Including Computers – US$1.5 billion (3.5%)
This category includes mechanical machinery and equipment, reflecting diversification in export products. - Fish – US$1.22 billion (2.9%)
Exports cover various seafood products, including molluscs and crustaceans. - Modified Starches, Glues, and Enzymes – US$1.18 billion (2.8%)
These are specialized chemical products used in various industries. - Electrical Machinery and Equipment – US$960.7 million (2.3%)
This sector experienced the fastest growth among the top ten, with a 38.2% increase from 2023.
Collectively, these top ten export categories accounted for approximately 74% of New Zealand’s total export revenues in 2024. The country’s export profile continues to be dominated by high-quality agricultural products, with significant contributions from the dairy, meat, and horticulture sectors.World’s Top Exports
In 2024, New Zealand’s exports of dairy products, eggs, honey, and related edible products reached approximately US$12.47 billion, solidifying their position as the country’s leading export category. Trading Economics
🥛 Dairy Sector Overview
The dairy industry remains a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenues. In the year ending March 2024, dairy exports were valued at NZ$23.7 billion, accounting for 24% of the nation’s total export values. The Treasury New Zealand
Key dairy products exported include:
- Whole Milk Powder (WMP): The primary dairy export, with export volumes up 1.5% from January to August 2024 compared to the same period in the previous year. USDA Foreign Agricultural Service
- Butter and Anhydrous Milk Fat (AMF): Exports of these products showed growth in 2024, reflecting increased global demand.
- Cheese: A significant export product, with steady demand in key markets.
- Casein and Caseinates: Specialized protein products used in various food and industrial applications.
🍯 Honey Exports
New Zealand’s honey exports, particularly Manuka honey, are renowned globally for their quality. In 2024, honey export values were forecasted at NZ$420 million, indicating a recovery from previous years. Figure.NZ
🌍 Key Export Markets
New Zealand’s primary export destinations for dairy and related products include:
- China: Continues to be the largest importer of New Zealand dairy products. Reuters+3USDA Foreign Agricultural Service+3MFAT+3
- United States: Dairy exports to the U.S. reached NZ$1.2 billion in 2023, with continued growth observed in 2024. MFAT
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries: A new trade agreement finalized in October 2024 is expected to enhance dairy exports to this region, which already accounted for NZ$1.8 billion in the year to June 2024. Reuters
These developments underscore the significance of dairy, eggs, and honey in New Zealand’s export economy and highlight the country’s strong trade relationships with key global markets.
In 2024, New Zealand’s red meat sector demonstrated resilience and growth, maintaining its position as the country’s second-largest goods export sector.mia.co.nz+1Beef + Lamb New Zealand+1
📈 Overall Export Performance
- Total Export Value: Red meat exports were valued at NZ$9.9 billion, accounting for approximately 14% of New Zealand’s total goods export revenue. mia.co.nz
- Monthly Highlights: December 2024 saw red meat exports reach NZ$1.04 billion, a 17% increase compared to December 2023. Rural News Group+1mia.co.nz+1
🥩 Beef and Sheepmeat Exports
- Beef:
- Export Volume: Approximately 481,657 tonnes.
- Key Markets:
- United States: 183,084 tonnes; NZ$1.85 billion in value.
- China: 146,943 tonnes; NZ$1.05 billion in value.
- Japan: 32,590 tonnes; NZ$324 million in value.
- Price Trends: Export prices for beef and veal rose by 6.1% in the December quarter. Beef + Lamb New ZealandStats NZ
- Sheepmeat:
- Export Volume: Approximately 373,682 tonnes.
- Key Markets:
- China: 169,051 tonnes; NZ$956 million in value.
- United States: 34,588 tonnes; NZ$625 million in value.
- United Kingdom: 42,183 tonnes; NZ$418 million in value.
- Price Trends: Lamb export prices increased by 7.0% in the December quarter. Beef + Lamb New ZealandStats NZ
🌍 Export Markets Overview
- United States: Remained the top market for New Zealand’s red meat exports, with a 16% increase in exports, totaling NZ$2.66 billion. mia.co.nz
- China: Despite a 32% decline in exports to NZ$2.86 billion, China remained a significant market. mia.co.nz
- Other Notable Markets:
- Canada: Experienced a 116% increase in December 2024 exports, reaching NZ$46 million.
- United Kingdom: Saw a 53% increase in December 2024 exports, totaling NZ$64 million. mia.co.nz
New Zealand’s red meat sector in 2024 showcased strong performance, with significant contributions from beef and sheepmeat exports. The industry’s adaptability to market dynamics and commitment to quality continue to bolster its position in the global market.
In 2024, New Zealand’s fruit export sector experienced significant growth, with kiwifruit and apples leading the charge.FreshPlaza+1The International Trade Council+1
🥝 Kiwifruit: A Record-Breaking Year
- Export Value: Kiwifruit exports reached a record NZ$3.5 billion, marking a 44% increase from 2023. Stats NZ
- Varietal Performance: Gold kiwifruit, particularly the SunGold variety, commanded higher prices and accounted for 57% of the 14,500 hectares planted. FreshPlaza+2FreshPlaza+2Scoop Business+2
- Key Markets: The European Union became the largest market, with exports valued at NZ$920 million, followed by China at NZ$850 million. MFAT
🍎 Apples and Pears: Steady Growth
- Export Value: Apple and pear exports were valued at approximately NZ$892 million in 2023, with forecasts suggesting a rise to NZ$970 million in 2024.
- Premium Varieties: High-value apple varieties like Dazzle, Posy, NZ Queen, and Pink Lady saw a 25% increase in export volumes, comprising 72% of total exports. FreshPlaza
🌰 Nuts: Emerging Potential
While nuts are not yet a major export for New Zealand, the sector shows promise with increasing interest in macadamias and walnuts.
New Zealand’s fruit export sector in 2024 showcased remarkable resilience and growth, with kiwifruit and apples leading the way. The country’s commitment to quality and innovation continues to strengthen its position in global markets.The International Trade Council
🌲 Wood – One of New Zealand’s Top Exports (2024)
- Export Value: Around US$2.89 billion
- Ranking: Among the top 3 export categories from New Zealand
- Export Volume: About 23 million cubic meters of wood (logs and processed)
🪵 Key Exported Wood Products:
- Logs (largest share) – NZ$3.42 billion
- Sawn timber & railway sleepers – NZ$850 million
- Wood pulp – NZ$610 million
- Paper & cardboard – NZ$350 million
- Wood panels – NZ$370 million
- Wood chips – NZ$80 million
🌍 Top Destinations:
- China – receives 92% of New Zealand’s log exports
- Others: Australia, South Korea, Thailand
⚠️ Challenges:
- Dependence on raw log exports (less value-added processing)
- China’s real estate slump has affected demand but NZ remains a top supplier
In 2024, New Zealand exported approximately US$1.65 billion worth of cereal, flour, starch, and milk preparations, accounting for about 3.9% of the country’s total exports. Trading Economics+4Trading Economics+4Trading Economics+4
🥣 Key Products in This Category
This export category includes a range of processed food products, such as:
- Infant formula: A significant component, with exports increasing by NZ$37 million (16%) to NZ$263 million in May 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year. Stats NZ
- Other processed foods: Including breakfast cereals, milk-based nutritional products, and ready-to-eat meals.
🌍 Major Export Markets
While specific country breakdowns for this category are limited, notable export destinations include:
- Australia: Receiving approximately US$249 million worth of these products in 2024.
- United States: Importing around US$2.46 million in this category during the same period. Trading Economics
📈 Trends and Outlook
The demand for high-quality, safe, and nutritious food products, particularly infant formula, continues to drive growth in this export category. New Zealand’s reputation for stringent food safety standards and quality assurance positions it favorably in global markets.
In 2024, New Zealand’s exports of beverages, spirits, and vinegar reached approximately US$1.51 billion, accounting for about 3.5% of the country’s total merchandise exports. Trading Economics
🥂 Key Export Products
This category encompasses a variety of products, including:
- Wine: Particularly Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region, which has gained international acclaim. DANDAN10
- Spirits: Such as gin and whiskey, produced by New Zealand’s growing craft distillery industry.
- Beer: Including both mainstream and craft varieties.
- Vinegar: Used in culinary applications worldwide.
🌍 Major Export Markets
While specific country breakdowns for this category are limited, notable export destinations include:
- United States: Importing approximately US$453.5 million worth of these products in 2024.
- Australia: A significant market due to geographic proximity and strong trade relations.
- European Union: Particularly for wine exports, given the region’s appreciation for diverse wine varieties.
📈 Trends and Outlook
The global demand for New Zealand’s beverages, especially its wines and craft spirits, continues to grow. The country’s reputation for high-quality production and unique flavor profiles positions it favorably in international markets.
In 2024, New Zealand’s exports of machinery, including computers, amounted to approximately US$1.5 billion, representing about 3.5% of the country’s total merchandise exports. This category experienced a significant year-over-year growth of 26.1%, marking it as the third-fastest-growing export sector for New Zealand in that year.
🛠️ Key Export Items in This Category
The “machinery, including computers” category encompasses a diverse range of products. Notably, exports of machinery and mechanical appliances, boilers, and nuclear reactors (classified under HS Code 84) reached approximately NZ$2.48 billion in 2024. Figure.NZ+1Tendata+1
Additionally, New Zealand’s exports to the United States included high-tech goods such as:MFAT+1MFAT+1
- Electro-magnets: NZ$107 million
- Electrical transformers: NZ$99 million
- Machines for making semiconductors: NZ$32 million MFATStats NZ
🌍 Major Export Markets
While specific country breakdowns for this category are limited, major export destinations likely include:
- United States: New Zealand exported NZ$14.6 billion in goods and services to the U.S. in the year ending March 2024, with high-tech goods being a significant component. MFAT+1MFAT+1
- Australia: As one of New Zealand’s top trading partners, Australia is a key market for machinery exports.
- China: Given China’s position as New Zealand’s largest trading partner, it is also a significant destination for machinery exports.
📈 Trends and Outlook
The substantial growth in this export category reflects New Zealand’s increasing capabilities in manufacturing and exporting complex machinery and computing equipment. This trend contributes to the diversification of the country’s export portfolio beyond traditional sectors like agriculture and forestry.
In 2024, New Zealand’s seafood exports—including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other aquatic invertebrates—totaled approximately US$1.22 billion, underscoring the sector’s significance in the nation’s export economy. Trading Economics
🐟 Export Volume
The total volume of fish exports, including re-exports, for the year ending June 2024 was approximately 166,567 tonnes, reflecting a modest increase from the previous year. Figure.NZ
🐠 Key Export Products
- Wild-Caught Seafood: Continued to dominate the sector, with exports valued at around NZ$1.61 billion in 2024. Figure.NZ
- Aquaculture: Contributed approximately NZ$590 million, marking a growing share in the seafood export market.
- Salmon: Exports surged to NZ$203 million, a 20% increase from 2023, driven by strong demand in key markets such as the USA, China, and Australia. AquaFeed
- Mussels: Remained a significant export, generating NZ$390.4 million in revenue. AquaFeed
🌍 Major Export Markets
New Zealand’s seafood exports reached a diverse range of international markets in 2024:
- United States: Imported seafood products worth approximately US$203 million, highlighting its position as a leading market.
- European Union: Countries like Poland (NZ$87 million), Spain (NZ$81 million), and Greece (NZ$34 million) were notable importers. seafood.co.nz
- China and Australia: Both countries showed significant demand, particularly for high-value products like salmon.
- Cameroon: Entered the top ten export markets with imports totaling NZ$35 million, reflecting New Zealand’s expanding global reach. seafood.co.nz
New Zealand’s seafood export sector in 2024 demonstrated resilience and growth, with increased volumes and diversification across products and markets. The rise in aquaculture, especially salmon farming, alongside strong wild-catch fisheries, positions the country well for future expansion in the global seafood market.
In 2024, New Zealand’s seafood exports—including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other aquatic invertebrates—totaled approximately US$1.22 billion, underscoring the sector’s significance in the nation’s export economy.
🐟 Export Volume
The total volume of fish exports, including re-exports, for the year ending June 2024 was approximately 166,567 tonnes, reflecting a modest increase from the previous year. Figure.NZ
🐠 Key Export Products
- Wild-Caught Seafood: Continued to dominate the sector, with exports valued at around NZ$1.61 billion in 2024.
- Aquaculture: Contributed approximately NZ$590 million, marking a growing share in the seafood export market.
- Salmon: Exports surged to NZ$203 million, a 20% increase from 2023, driven by strong demand in key markets such as the USA, China, and Australia.
- Mussels: Remained a significant export, generating NZ$390.4 million in revenue.
🌍 Major Export Markets
New Zealand’s seafood exports reached a diverse range of international markets in 2024:
- United States: Imported seafood products worth approximately US$203 million, highlighting its position as a leading market.
- European Union: Countries like Poland (NZ$87 million), Spain (NZ$81 million), and Greece (NZ$34 million) were notable importers. seafood.co.nz
- China and Australia: Both countries showed significant demand, particularly for high-value products like salmon.
- Cameroon: Entered the top ten export markets with imports totaling NZ$35 million, reflecting New Zealand’s expanding global reach.
New Zealand’s seafood export sector in 2024 demonstrated resilience and growth, with increased volumes and diversification across products and markets. The rise in aquaculture, especially salmon farming, alongside strong wild-catch fisheries, positions the country well for future expansion in the global seafood market.
In 2024, New Zealand exported approximately US$1.18 billion worth of modified starches, glues, and enzymes, accounting for about 2.8% of the country’s total merchandise exports. This category experienced a 12.6% decrease in export value compared to the previous year, making it the leading decliner among New Zealand’s top ten export categories. Trading EconomicsWorld’s Top Exports+1Tendata+1
🧪 Key Export Products
This export category encompasses a range of products, including:
- Modified Starches: Such as dextrins and pregelatinized starches, used in food processing, paper manufacturing, and textiles.TrendEconomy
- Glues and Adhesives: Including those based on starches and other natural polymers, utilized in packaging, woodworking, and construction.
- Enzymes: Applied in various industries like brewing, dairy processing, and biofuel production.
- Albuminoidal Substances: Such as casein and gelatin, used in food products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
🌍 Major Export Markets
While specific country breakdowns for 2024 are limited, historical data indicates that major destinations for New Zealand’s exports in this category include:
- China: A significant importer of New Zealand’s glues, starches, and albuminoid products.Tendata+6The Observatory of Economic Complexity+6Figure.NZ+6
- United States: Consistently among the top importers of these products from New Zealand.
- Japan: A key market for New Zealand’s modified starches and related products.
These markets reflect the global demand for New Zealand’s specialized industrial and food-processing ingredients.
📉 Trends and Outlook
The decline in export value for this category in 2024 may be attributed to factors such as global market fluctuations, changes in demand, or increased competition. Despite this downturn, the sector remains a vital component of New Zealand’s export economy, with opportunities for growth through innovation and diversification.
In 2024, New Zealand’s exports of electrical machinery and equipment reached approximately US$961.8 million, accounting for about 2.3% of the country’s total merchandise exports. This category experienced a significant year-over-year growth of 38.2%, making it the fastest-growing export sector among New Zealand’s top ten export categories. World’s Top Exports
⚡ Key Export Products
The “electrical machinery and equipment” category encompasses a diverse range of products, including:
- Electric Motors and Generators: Used in various industrial applications.
- Transformers and Static Converters: Essential for power distribution and electronic devices.
- Electrical Control Panels: Utilized in automation and manufacturing processes.MFAT
- Signal and Safety Equipment: Employed in transportation and infrastructure systems.Tendata+12Trading Economics+12Trading Economics+12
These products are integral to sectors such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and construction.
🌍 Major Export Markets
New Zealand’s electrical machinery and equipment exports in 2024 were distributed across several key international markets:
- United States: Imported approximately US$266.1 million worth of electrical machinery and equipment from New Zealand.
- Australia: Received about US$242.7 million in electrical and electronic equipment exports from New Zealand. Trading Economics
These two countries collectively accounted for over US$508 million, or more than 52% of New Zealand’s total exports in this category for 2024.
📈 Trends and Outlook
The substantial growth in this export category reflects New Zealand’s increasing capabilities in manufacturing and exporting complex electrical machinery and equipment. This trend contributes to the diversification of the country’s export portfolio beyond traditional sectors like agriculture and forestry.