New Zealand’s deciduous fruit production and exports rebound after cyclone damage

New Zealand’s deciduous fruit sector is on track for stronger production and export performance in the 2025/26 market year, according to the latest USDA Fresh Deciduous Fruit Annual.

The USDA forecasts apple production to rise nearly 2% to about 565,000 metric tons in 2025/26 as orchard areas recover from the severe impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023. The planted apple area is expected to hold steady at around 11,100 hectares, with harvesting expanding to roughly 10,600 ha. Key growing regions include Hawke’s Bay, Tasman, and Central Otago, where favourable soils and climate support commercial output.

Exports are also forecast to strengthen. USDA projects apple exports to reach about 390,000 tons, the highest level since 2019/20, with primary destinations in Asia, including Vietnam, Taiwan, China, and growing opportunities in India. Export value during January to September of the current market year already approached NZ$1.2 billion (≈US$705 million), supported by higher volumes and stronger prices.

On the import side, deciduous fruit imports remain modest, with apples recorded at only about 200 MT. The report highlights that outside imports account for a small share of total supply compared with robust domestic output targeted for export markets.

The USDA notes that labour availability and ongoing recovery investments — combined with favourable weather outlooks — are key factors enabling the sector’s rebound. With export volumes already up year-on-year, New Zealand’s deciduous fruit industry aims to build on this momentum into the 2025/26 season.

Read the full report here.

source: fas.usda.gov

photo: fas.usda.gov