Red meat exports for August reach $867 million as sector gathers in Wellington

New Zealand’s red meat and fifth-quarter exports reached $867 million in August, up 23 per cent on the same month last year, as stronger returns lifted earnings across all major markets.

The release of the export data by the Meat Industry Association (MIA) coincides with the annual Red Meat Sector conference in Wellington today, 29 September.

Sheepmeat exports were worth $309 million, 20 per cent more than in August last year. China increased 46 per cent to $71 million, while the United Kingdom rose 118 per cent to $54 million and became the third-largest sheepmeat market by value for the month.

Beef exports increased 26 per cent in value to $403 million. The United States remained the leading market at $155 million, up 30 per cent, while China rose 12 per cent to $79 million and Canada increased 55 per cent to $18 million. Fifth-quarter exports were worth $156 million, an increase of 13 per cent.

Meat Industry Association chief executive Nick Beeby said the result underlined the value the sector continues to generate for New Zealand.

“A 23 per cent lift in export value is a strong result. Export volumes have also increased compared with August last year, but the more significant movement is in value, reflecting improved returns from international markets.

“The breadth of the result is encouraging, with export values higher across all major markets and gains for both sheepmeat and beef in China.

“However, one month’s data should be viewed in context, given the global volatility and cost-of-living pressures that may push some consumers towards lower-value proteins.”

“The August result builds on the returns for the 2025/26 financial year (year ending 30 June), where red meat and fifth quarter exports were worth $13.1 billion. This was 21 per cent higher than in 2024/25 and a record annual export value.”

Beeby said the red meat sector was a New Zealand success story in doing more with less.

“Despite a smaller livestock base, the sector has increased export revenue over time through higher global prices, strong demand for premium cuts and a sustained shift towards processed, chilled and frozen products.

“Around 97 per cent of exported product is now high-value chilled or frozen cuts, supported by valuable co-products and a diversified global trading network. Frozen carcasses now account for just three per cent of trade.

“This reflects the sector’s focus on capturing more value from every animal and delivering products that meet the needs of customers around the world.”