It’s been a great year for kiwifruit growers, with a record-breaking harvest now complete and strong returns on the horizon. Despite some uncertainty over potential US tariffs, the industry is confident and focused on continued growth, both at home and abroad.
A Harvest to Remember
According to New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated CEO Colin Bond, this season’s harvest was the largest ever, with over 215 million trays picked. Favorable weather and growing conditions contributed to a smooth season, and growers are now eagerly awaiting final market prices. The future looks bright, with the industry predicting a 17% increase in total supply between 2024 and 2029.
Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake echoed the positive sentiment, noting that the 2025-26 sales programmes have started strong, particularly in Europe and North America. In its indicative June forecast, Zespri is on track to deliver record returns for growers, with average per-hectare returns for several varieties, including Green and SunGold Kiwifruit, expected to exceed last year’s record.
Navigating Global Markets
While the season has been a success, potential tariffs on exports to the United States remain on the industry’s radar. The US is a crucial growth market for Zespri, and both Zespri and New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated are working closely with the New Zealand Government and US partners to navigate the situation.
“The United States is a country that we are launching our kiwifruit into and, despite the current uncertainty, there is a long-term strategy to have a consistent supply of fruit on shelves there,” said Colin Bond.
Zespri’s commitment to the US market is clear. It’s their sixth-largest market by volume, and they recently launched the new RubyRed variety there for the first time, receiving positive feedback from customers.
Going Global to Grow Local
To ensure a year-round supply of kiwifruit and meet global demand, Zespri has developed its Zespri Global Supply operations. By partnering with growers in Italy, France, Japan, Korea, and Greece, they can provide kiwifruit during the Northern Hemisphere growing season, complementing New Zealand’s harvest.
Last year, a grower vote approved a significant expansion of Zespri Global Supply, a move that Te Brake says reflects the industry’s ability to unite on key issues. This collaboration helps maintain Zespri’s position as a market leader and delivers strong returns for local growers and their communities.
As the industry looks ahead, the focus is on a long-term strategy to ensure the best possible value for New Zealand kiwifruit growers.
