Home › About OPENZ › News ›

News

New Zealand Organic Exports Grow to $170million

Media Release, 20 May 2010

The Organic Products Exporters of New Zealand Inc (OPENZ) welcomes University of Otago research to be released today, showing that exports of New Zealand organic food and beverages have increased by $100 million between 2002 and 2009.

"The organic sector contributed a total of $485 million to the New Zealand economy in 2009, with organic exports growing to $170million, from $120million in 2007 and $70million in 2002", said OPENZ Deputy Chair, Dr Michelle Glogau.

"The domestic market for organic products has also grown, and is now valued at $315 million", Dr Glogau said.

"Organic exports support both New Zealand's economy and our international image as a country at the leading edge of high value, sustainable food and beverage production.

"Fruit and vegetables continue to be New Zealand's main organic export, but dairy products and beverages - particularly organic wine - are fast catching up.

"Organic fruit and vegetable exports were valued at $85.8million in 2009, with $27.8million of organic dairy products and $16.9million worth of beverages also sent offshore.

"Europe and North America continue to be New Zealand's main organic export markets, receiving 37% and 22% of organic exports respectively, but Australia has emerged as the third largest export destination, at 19%.

"This research also highlights the growing importance of South Korea as a destination market - but one where New Zealand's market access is threatened by proposals for a tough new Korean national standard.

"Organic products represent a US$50billion international market, meaning that significant growth opportunities remain for innovative New Zealanders", Dr Glogau said.

The University of Otago research, completed in conjunction with The AgriBusiness Group, was commissioned by OPENZ and Organics Aotearoa New Zealand.