Colin Ambler/cvnznews.com
New Zealand Red Meat Exports Hit Record $1.6 Billion in May
New Zealand’s red meat sector has delivered a second consecutive record month, with May exports surging to an unprecedented $1.6 billion — a result industry leaders are calling extraordinary.
The latest Meat Industry Association (MIA) data shows export returns in May were 44% higher than the same month last year, eclipsing April’s previous record of $1.4 billion. Both beef and sheepmeat set new highs, driven by stronger global demand and a sharp lift in processing after a slow start to the year.
Beef and sheepmeat lead the charge
Sheepmeat exports reached $590.4 million, up 33% on May 2025 and nearly $17 million above April’s record. Beef exports climbed even higher to $771 million, a massive 51% jump on last May and $163 million above April’s record.
MIA chief executive Nick Beeby says the back‑to‑back records reflect both market strength and improved production. New Zealand processed 26,000 tonnes more beef and 11,000 tonnes more sheepmeat in April and May compared with the same period last year — a sharp turnaround from the first quarter, when output lagged.
“This is great news for New Zealand’s economy, for rural communities, and for the 120,000 jobs supported by the red meat sector,” Beeby said.
China rebounds, GCC stabilises
China’s demand hit its highest level in several years, lifting both beef and sheepmeat values. Exports to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also showed signs of recovery after earlier disruption linked to Middle East conflict. While GCC volumes were still down year‑on‑year, they were close to the average levels seen between 2022 and 2025.
Sheepmeat: record prices across major markets
Sheepmeat volumes rose 17% to 39,472 tonnes, with average export prices hitting a record $14.96/kg. The US, EU and UK all posted record per‑kilogram values, while China reached its highest level in four years. Saudi Arabia was the only major market to record a decline in value.
Beef: US and China dominate
Beef exports hit a record 57,899 tonnes, up 26% on last May. Shipments to the US soared 59% to 28,198 tonnes, while China rose 29% to 14,612 tonnes. Export values to the US jumped 88% to $413 million, with China up 47% to $129 million
Exports of offal, casings, tripe and processed meats climbed 54% to $249 million, rounding out one of the strongest months ever recorded for the sector
