NZ Red Meat Outlook 2026: Growth amid trade uncertainty
While things are looking positive for the red meat sector in 2026, volatility in global trade remains a concern, says the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
Beef + Lamb NZ chair Andrew Morrison says the new strategy aims for better profitability and sustainability.
New Zealand’s red meat sector has launched a new strategy to identify and unlock market opportunities and improve the sector’s sustainability, productivity and prosperity.
The strategy is a collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
It sets out four key goals for the sector to achieve by 2030, including sustainably profitable, premium value, vibrant communities, and trusted guardianship.
The strategy builds on the first Red Meat Sector Strategy which was adopted in 2011.
“Our vision is to grow sustainable value together and we are committed to doing the right thing by our people, animals and environment,” said Andrew Morrison, chairman of B+LNZ.
He says the new strategy would establish critical priorities B+LNZ and MIA would work on together with industry partners.
“We have set our sights on greater profitability, sustainability and resilience. We are seeking increased value for our customers and consumers and greater social and economic benefits for Aotearoa,” he said.
Morrison says that since the first Red Meat Sector Strategy was established, co-operation continued to grow and expand into new areas.
“By partnering across the supply chain on the most important challenges and opportunities for the red meat sector, we have been able to create value for all sector participants, as well as our country, communities and consumers.”
John Loughlin, chairman of MIA, says the strategy captures work the sector is already engaged in and the opportunities that will build the sector’s future.
“By establishing clear goals and priorities, the strategy provides a platform for partnerships of shared aspiration especially with Māori, the dairy sector, other primary sector leaders and the New Zealand Government,” Loughlin said.
“Our people and businesses are integral to New Zealand’s communities and economy. We are proud of what we do and our contribution to the wellbeing and prosperity of our country, and we’ll keep working hard to constantly improve.”
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) has added its perspective to numerous primary sector voices urging the Government to strengthen its draft legislation to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).
The Commerce Commission has finalised new information disclosure requirements for local councils and water organisations that deliver water supply and wastewater services.
Beef + Lamb NZ (B+LNZ) is calling for significant changes to the Government’s reforms to the Resource Management Act (RMA).
NZPork says the Government needs to strengthen its proposed planning laws to ensure New Zealand's pig farmers can continue to produce pork.
Good news for kiwifruit growers - a record crop with forecast per hectare returns at record levels for all fruit categories for the 2025-26 season.
As guests gathered on what is known as the Speaker's Lawn - a beautifully manicured patch of grass behind the main buildings of Parliament - to mingle and enjoy a lamb chop to celebrate National Lamb Day, the mood was very much upbeat.

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