New Zealand red meat exports were worth $1.37 billion in June, 50 per cent higher than the same month last year and a record value for June, according to the Meat Industry Association.
The June result was supported by higher sheepmeat and beef export volumes and stronger global prices. Sheepmeat exports rose 40 per cent by volume to 30,043 tonnes and 53 per cent by value to $458 million. Beef exports increased 25 per cent by volume to 51,344 tonnes and 52 per cent by value to $679 million.
For the full 2025/26 year (12 months ended 30 June 2026), sheepmeat exports rose one per cent by volume to 371,748 tonnes, with value up 26 per cent to $5.2 billion. Beef volumes were essentially unchanged at 461,496 tonnes, but value increased 21 per cent to $5.8 billion. Fifth quarter exports were worth $2.2 billion, up 11 per cent. Total exports reached $13.2 billion, 21 per cent higher than in 2024/25.
The United States remained the largest market, with exports worth $3.8 billion, up 21 per cent. China followed at $2.7 billion (up 7 per cent), the European Union at $1.9 billion (up 25 per cent), the United Kingdom at $1 billion (up 51 per cent), and Canada at $740 million (up 32 per cent).
Meat Industry Association chief executive Nick Beeby said the figures reflected firm demand in key markets, but cautioned that cost-of-living pressures could affect momentum. "Some of the lift reflects stronger prices and market conditions, and we will need to see whether that momentum is sustained as consumers face cost-of-living pressures," he said.
Source: scoop.co.nz
