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Writer's pictureScott Mathias

Sustainability Push Needed as NZ’s Fruit and Vegetable Exports Soar to $4.3 Billion

New Zealand's fresh fruit and vegetable exports are projected to reach $4.3 billion in 2024, marking an 8% increase from 2023. This growth underscores the global demand for New Zealand produce, with Taiwan importing over $44 million worth of cherries and Royal Gala apples comprising nearly 22% of apple exports.


More than NZ$1.7 Billion of New Zealand kiwifruit are exported to Asian countries.

Fresh cherries in hand

These insights are detailed in the "Fresh Facts 2024" report by United Fresh, an organisation representing New Zealand's pan-produce sector. General Manager Paula Dudley emphasises the importance of accurate data for industry planning and growth, stating, "As a key player in the fresh produce sector, we hold a collective responsibility to generate measurable, timely, intelligent and accurate data."


The report also highlights a gap in sustainability practices within the industry. While 84% of organisations mention sustainability in their annual reports, only 20% reference the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and a mere 2% have adopted an SDG framework. This indicates a need for a more structured approach to sustainability.


United Fresh has previously provided guidelines to help businesses align with the 17 SDGs adopted by the New Zealand government. Dudley notes that "Fresh Facts 2024 serves as a valuable tool to unlock our industry’s full potential," advocating for a data-driven approach to enhance economic growth and strengthen engagement with the government.


For more detailed information, the "Fresh Facts 2024" report CLICK HERE.


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