New Zealand's food and fibre exports for the year to June have soared to $53.3billion - adding $1.1bn to the amount originally forecast.
Meat and dairy industry lead the charge in bringing an additional $1.1bn into the NZ economy, to 30 June 2022. Photo: 123rf
Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor said the outstanding result is a testament to the hard work of those in the industry.
"The June quarter saw a strong finish to what we'd already forecast to be a record year for exports," he said.
"Meat and dairy led the charge in bringing an additional $1.1bn into our economy.
"The data also showed seafood and horticulture exports surpassing the previous year's exports, which is fantastic news."
O'Connor said the Government was committed to continuing its work with the food and fibre sector on its ongoing success.
"We developed the government and sector roadmap Fit for a Better World to lift productivity, sustainability and jobs because we all recognise our markets are evolving and the climate is changing.
"Through Budget 2022, we committed more than $1bn to help the sector reduce agricultural emissions, boost productivity, and provide vital support to farmers and growers on the ground such as through the new On Farm Support team.
He said the government has also committed more than $216m in projects through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund. He said the sector's contribution takes total funding to more than $482m.
"Together we're backing a large range of projects, from understanding regenerative farming practices in the New Zealand context to exploring and progressing new sectors, such as hemp and medicinal cannabis."
O'Connor said food and fibre exports made up for 81.4 percent of New Zealand's total exports in the year to 30 June 2022.
"In the two years since covid-19 came knocking on our doors, I believe that, collectively, we've done a terrific job keeping the wheels of the economy turning.
"The sector has also responded to other challenges, such as the current weather events which I'm watching closely."
He acknowledged the sectors' ongoing efforts and congratulated them on a job well done.
"It's helping provide New Zealand's economic security in challenging times."
