Cheese export values stretch to new highs

Cheese exports rose $763 million (35 percent) in the 12 months to May 2023, compared with the previous year reaching $3.0 billion, according to figures released by Stats NZ.

Over the same period, cheese quantities exported rose 6.9 percent, and the average price per kilogram rose 26 percent.

"Cheese has become an even more valuable export for New Zealand over the last year, reflecting the higher prices that are being experienced globally," international trade manager Al Allen said.

Overseas merchandise trade: May 2023 provides data for this news story.

Cheddar cheese made up 43 percent of total cheese exported or $1.3 billion and was the top category of cheese exported in the year to May 2023. Fresh cheese (mainly mozzarella and cream cheese) made up 18 percent ($528 million), and grated or powdered cheese made up 15 percent ($456 million) of the total.

China was our leading destination by value for cheese exported. There was $784 million worth of cheese exported to China (26 percent of total cheese exports). Japan ($530 million or 18 percent), and Australia ($336 million or 11 percent) made up the top three destinations.

"There were over 70 destinations that New Zealand cheese has been exported to in the past year," Allen said.

In terms of value, cheddar was the top cheese export to Japan ($249 million), Australia ($211 million), and Korea ($151 million) in the 12 months to May 2023, whereas the top cheese exports to China was fresh cheese ($264 million) followed by grated or powdered cheese ($238 million).