increase font size
Red meat exports topped $932 million during February.
Red meat exports topped $932 million during February, with demand from the US helping to offset the weak Chinese market.
Overall, New Zealand red meat exports in February were up 10% on the relatively low export value recorded in February 2023, largely due to a rise in sheepmeat and beef exports, particularly to the US.
Sheepmeat exports increased to nearly all major markets, apart from China where the volume fell by 8% to 19,401 tonnes.
Beef exports increased by 20% overall to 48,431 tonnes. This was 15% above the average for February exports over the last five years and included a 4% increase to China.
The EU and UK markets saw an increase in both volume and value for beef. So far this year, New Zealand has exported 998 tonnes of beef to the EU, worth $19.8m, a 38% increase in volume and 16% increase in value compared to the first two months of last year.
The average free on board (FoB) value of beef exports to the EU is $19.83/kg, more than twice the $8.31/kg average for beef exports.
Meat Industry Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva said increased export volumes to the US were helping to offset lower demand from China.
“In February, the US accounted for nearly the same proportion of overall exports as China – 28% and 30% respectively.
“However, the results from the high value EU market highlights how the limited quota for beef in the Free Trade Agreement is a real missed opportunity for companies to develop a valuable market to help boost economic returns for the sector and the country.”
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
Alliance Group and Grand Farm have signed a strategic co-operation agreement with a focus on delivering more premium New Zealand grass-fed beef to Chinese consumers.
Chinese textile company Saibosi has partnered with Wools of New Zealand to put the 'farm to floor' story of New Zealand wool rugs on screen for its customers.
The Meat Industry Association (MIA) have announced the dates for the 2025 Red Meat Sector Conference.
OPINION: The appendage swinging contest between the US and China continues, with China hitting back with a new rate of 125% on the US, up from the 84% announced earlier.
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…
