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July 2025 Edition
INSIDE
THIS EDITION AI trial
p5 Voters fed up
p14 Strong exports
p20 Outlook bright
p32
Positive: HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott is one of those delighted with the results of the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report from the Ministry for Primary Industries which paints a rosy picture for the farming sector.
Forecast ‘good news’ The Ministry for Primary Industries’ latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report makes for some positive reading for the country’s farming community.
] by Kent Caddick Minister for Agriculture Todd McClay said the report confirmed what kiwis knew, that “our produce is world best with food and fibre exports surging”. “We’re on track to hit nearly $60 billion in export revenue by the end of June, a record level.” Some of the highlights of the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report for the year to June 30 included revealing that dairy export revenue had lifted by 16% to reach a record $27 billion, meat and
wool export revenue was up 8% to $12.3 billion, horticulture export revenue grew by 19% reaching $8.5 billion while forestry export revenue jumped by 9% to $6.3 billion. The report forecast shows New Zealand’s red meat sector will continue to be a strong driver of economic growth, with a lift in key meat export prices expected due to tighter global beef and lamb production. Higher export prices for most products are forecast to be partially offset by lower volumes of beef and lamb. Sheep and beef farm profit before tax is forecast to increase 89% in 2024-25 due
to higher farm revenue, more than offsetting higher farm expenditure. This lift in profitability follows falls in the previous three years. Meat Industry Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva said the improved forecast highlights the sector’s importance to the New Zealand economy. “We’re expecting an uplift in key export prices, driven by reduced global production of beef and lamb and continued strong international demand for red meat,” Karapeeva said.
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