November 4, 2024

Decline in animal processing impacts New Zealand's red meat export volumes

MIA said that red-meat exports totalled NZD 564 million (US$338 million) in September 2024, representing an 8% decline compared to the same month last year.

The US emerged as New Zealand's largest red-meat export market, with exports valued at NZD 143 million (US$85.7 million), a decrease of 5%. China followed with exports valued at NZD 106 million (US$63.5 million), marking a significant 41% drop year-on-year.

Sirma Karapeeva, chief executive of the MIA, noted that while global demand for New Zealand red meat generally remains strong, supply has been constrained in recent months. "The most noticeable trend for the month, and the third quarter, was the drop in the volume of exports compared to last year," Karapeeva said. "This appears to be largely due to a drop in production over recent months. There has been less meat produced and available for export."

Earlier in the year, a higher number of animals were processed. Between January and May, beef production rose by 4% compared to the same period in the previous year, while sheep meat production was up by 6%. However, production for both beef and sheep meat dropped by 24% between June and August when compared to the same period in 2023.

In response to production fluctuations, meat companies have aimed to diversify and expand into multiple markets. Export increases were seen in Canada, where shipments of both sheep and beef were up 71%, reaching $40 million. The Netherlands also showed growth, with exports up by 48% to $30 million, while exports to the United Kingdom grew by 51% to $25 million.

Through these expanded market efforts, New Zealand's meat companies seek to stabilise red-meat exports amidst ongoing fluctuations in production.

-      RNZ News