New Zealand has achieved significant results in the export of red meat

In 2025, New Zealand achieved outstanding results in red meat and fifth-quarter product exports, setting a record of $11.7 billion. This figure is 19% higher than the 2024 figure, demonstrating strong momentum in the industry. The main factors driving this growth were high global prices and robust demand in key markets.

Main Sales Markets

Among importing countries, the United States became the largest market for New Zealand red meat, increasing import volumes by 17% to $3.2 billion. China, although only growing by 2%, remains a significant player with $2.5 billion. The European Union also demonstrated impressive growth, with shipments increasing by 42% to $1.8 billion. Exports to the United Kingdom grew by 64% to $858 million, while shipments to Canada increased by 52% to $644 million.

Reasons for the Growth

According to Sirma Karapeeva, head of the association, the key factors behind the growth were robust global demand and limited supply of beef and lamb in the global market. Despite a 7% decline in beef export volumes, the value of the product increased, driven by strong prices, reaching a record $5 billion.

Fifth-quarter exports also showed positive momentum, increasing by 8% to $2 billion. This demonstrates that New Zealand producers are successfully adapting to market changes and finding new opportunities to increase revenue.

December Results

In December 2025, total red meat and related product exports reached $1.3 billion, up 29% from December 2024. Lamb exports totaled 371,222 tonnes, virtually flat with 2024 levels, but the value increased by 31% to $4.7 billion. The average lamb price reached $12.62 per kg, significantly higher than $9.65 a year earlier.

China remained the largest market for lamb imports (156,345 tonnes, down 7%), but the value of shipments increased by 17% to $1.1 billion. The European Union became the most valuable market for lamb, with volumes up 17% to 69,837 tonnes and value up 50% to $1.4 billion, driven by lower domestic production in the region.

Prospects and New Opportunities

Despite some reductions in shipments to the UK and US, the high global price drove revenue growth: 27% in the UK and 10% in the US. Notably, shipments to Saudi Arabia increased by 29% in volume and 80% in value, driven by strong demand for frozen products. Frozen meat accounts for over 95% of exports to that country. The entry into force of the free trade agreement between New Zealand and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is expected to open up new opportunities for New Zealand producers.

2025 has been a landmark year for the New Zealand red meat sector, which has not only overcome challenges but also adapted to new conditions, increasing exports and strengthening its position internationally. High prices and growing demand create a positive backdrop for the industry’s continued growth in the future.

Tags: export, Beef cattle, New Zealand