Productivity increases to help mitigate ongoing cost pressures
New Zealand’s apple and pear sector is on track for another record season, with export returns forecast to surpass NZ$1.3bn (US$755mn), supported by an increase in productivity and growing international demand.
The Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report, released at Fieldays on 11 June by the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, revealed apple and pear revenue was forecast to increase by 5.5 per cent, for the 12 months to June 30, 2026.
This sector growth was part of a 7 per cent horticulture-wide export revenue increase, for a record NZ$9.5bn (US$5.5bn).
Favourable growing conditions, maturing orchards and ongoing investment by growers has contributed to an increase crop this season, said New Zealand Apples and Pears (NZAPI) CEO Danielle Adsett.
“Growers have benefited from a second consecutive season of good growing conditions, which has supported both fruit quality and yield. In many markets we are seeing demand outstrip supply, which is a great position to be in,” Adsett said.
“At the same time, the sector continues to see gains from modern orchard systems and new plantings coming into production.”
The outlook is further strengthened by improved market access opportunities, including provisions for apples and pears under the recently signed New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement.
Adsett noted, however, that while volumes are up, returns to growers are under pressure.
“Increased production costs, including for energy, fuel and shipping, remain a concern for overall grower profitability, but despite this, the sector is committed to long-term sustainable growth and resilience,” she said.
Adsett added that investment in higher-performing varieties, more efficient growing systems, and orchard redevelopment would support productivity gains in the years ahead.
“With young plantings maturing and innovation across orchard systems, the sector is well positioned for steady growth in export volumes and value over the medium term,” she said.
Looking ahead, Adsett said maintaining momentum would depend on a stable operating environment, including reliable workforce settings, competitive input costs, access to water and continued progress on market access.
