Record Exports Drive Sector Scale
New Zealand's food and fibre sector exports are forecast to reach $62 billion in the year to 30 June 2026. This marks a 3 percent rise from $60.4 billion the prior year, according to the Ministry for Primary Industries Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries December 2025 report.
The sector accounts for 83 percent of all New Zealand goods exports. It employs more than 360,000 people, or one in every seven workers in the national workforce.
$4.77 Billion Baseline Funding Confirmed
Budget 2026 allocates $4.77 billion in baseline funding to the Ministry for Primary Industries over the next four years. The funding maintains frontline services while the Government pursues efficiency gains.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay said the package backs sustainable growth. "Budget 2026 backs sustainable growth of the food and fibre sector, our largest export earner," he stated.
Efficiency Savings Reinforce Fiscal Discipline
MPI will deliver $52.8 million in baseline savings over four years through efficiencies in contracts, property, digital services and support functions. This forms part of wider public service measures to achieve more with less.
The net operating package across Budget 2026 totals $2.1 billion, below the $2.4 billion allowance. New spending of $3.8 billion per year on average is offset by $1.7 billion in savings and revenue measures.
Targeted Investments Alongside Savings
Budget 2026 includes $109.2 million over three years for wilding conifer control. Of this, $30 million comes from MPI baseline funding. The measure improves land management and resilience.
Additional support covers innovative technologies, productivity initiatives and environmental partnerships. Regulatory reforms cut red tape while the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement opens new markets.
Outlook to 2027 and Rural Impacts
Exports are expected to exceed $63 billion in the year to 30 June 2027. Sustained growth supports rural communities, the balance of payments and overall GDP.
The sector's performance underpins thriving regional economies where primary industries remain central to employment and local prosperity.
