Asian demand a boon to NZ food and beverage market

High-value foods and beverages are in demand in Asia - and New Zealand is cashing in on the trend. A new report published by the NZ government shows the increased demand is driving export growth and diversification in the country.

The report, “What Does Asia Want for Dinner? Emerging Market Opportunities for New Zealand Food & Beverages in East & South East Asia”, finds that New Zealand’s food and beverage export to Asia is performing strongly in dairy, meat, seafood, produce and processed foods.

Infant formula, dairy nutritionals and innovative foods are in demand, the report shows. Significant opportunities also exist in a range of high-value categories such as chilled salmon, honey, chocolate, sparkling wine, beer, avocados, alcoholic spirits and cherries.

These categories already generate more than $1 billion in exports for New Zealand.

“In the past 20 years New Zealand wine, honey, aquaculture, avocados and processed foods have all emerged to be significant new export sectors, and this report shows there are further opportunities in East and Southeast Asia,” said Nathan Guy, Primary Industries Minister.

The report is available online at www.foodandbeverage.govt.nz.