New Zealand kiwifruit production set for record in 2025/26

New Zealand’s kiwifruit sector is heading toward another expansion year, with production forecast to reach around 800,000 tonnes in MY 2025/26, marking a fresh record if achieved. The increase is being driven by maturing orchards, improved labour availability, and favourable growing conditions across key regions, according to the latest GAIN report by USDA.

Exports remain strong. Shipments in MY 2024/25 climbed 44% year on year to nearly 767,620 tonnes, the largest volume on record, with exports projected to rise further to about 780,000 tonnes in the current cycle.

The European Union leads as the largest destination, accounting for 32% of shipments, followed by China (27%), Japan (14%), and the United States (6%). New Zealand fruit reached 55 international markets during the season.

Kiwifruit exports generated more than NZ$4.5 billion (US$2.6 billion) FOB in 2025, reinforcing the crop’s position as the country’s top fresh-produce export category.

Varietal mix is also evolving. SunGold remains the dominant growth driver, now planted across roughly 7,500 hectares, while traditional green Hayward retains a significant base. Smaller volumes of licensed RubyRed fruit are expanding gradually, particularly for Asian programmes.

Production is heavily concentrated in the Bay of Plenty, which accounts for about 79% of national output. Sector recovery from past PSA disease pressure has been supported by the shift toward more tolerant gold varieties.

On the policy front, trade agreements continue to reshape market access. Tariffs have been eliminated in the EU under the bilateral FTA, while a new agreement with India introduces duty-free quotas of up to 15,000 tonnes, opening additional headroom for export growth.

Read the full report here.

source: fas.usda.gov

graphics: hea.co.nz, fas.usda.gov