New Zealand sheep and beef farm profits are expected to increase by 96% to NZ$287,600 per farm for 2025/26.
This is due to higher livestock prices offsetting higher agricultural spending, according to the latest situation and outlook report issued by the Ministry of Primary and Primary Industries (SOPI).
New Zealand Red meat and wool export revenues are expected to rise by 14% to NZ$14.1 billion. The report said in the year ending June 30, 2026.
In 2026/27, export revenues are expected to rise 1% to NZ$14.3 billion due to strong global demand and limited beef supplies. Strong beef revenues are expected to offset lower lamb export prices.
Nathan Jay, President of the New Zealand Meat Industry Association
Meat Industry Association (MIA) independent chair Nathan Guy said the latest forecasts reflected strong demand for New Zealand red meat in key overseas markets.
“International demand for New Zealand red meat remains steady, with demand continuing to strengthen in North America, and Europe also showing strong demand, particularly for beef,” he said.
“This demonstrates the continued value global consumers place on the high-quality, nutritious protein produced by New Zealand farmers and the trusted reputation the sector has built in key markets.”
‘trust’
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) president Kate Acland said sheep and beef farmers were feeling positive about the outlook for the sector.
“This trust is important because it supports investment in agribusiness, local services and rural communities,” she said.
Kate Acland. Source: Claire Toya Bailey
Acland added that recent findings from Business and Economics Research (BERL) also highlighted the sector’s broader contribution to the New Zealand economy.
“On average, farmers and processors spend NZ$64 million per day through communities and industries across the country, rising to NZ$133 million per day when indirect impacts are included,” she said.
“This influx of spending helps support thousands of businesses, supports the jobs they create, and strengthens the economic base that supports communities across the country.
“We know that when the red meat sector does well, so does the New Zealand economy.”
Jay added that expectations point to stronger returns across the sector as global supply remains limited.
“Tight global supply and resilient demand will continue to support revenues across the red meat sector, support jobs, increase spending in rural communities, and strengthen the broader New Zealand economy,” he said.
