NZ exports record volume of beef in May

New Zealand’s beef exports rebounded in May 2025, posting a solid 15.7% rise from April to 49,281 tons (t), according to the latest data from Stats NZ.

Volumes rose 6,676 tons month-on-month driven by stronger shipments to the United States (US), China, and Canada. Modest gains to the United Kingdom (UK), Taiwan, and Japan also contributed to the higher May figures.

On the contrary, annual growth continued to be hindered by lower cattle kills. Yearly figures fell 10.2% or 5,581 t, led by reduced shipments to China and Japan. Allocations to New Zealand’s largest market, the US, slipped amid concerns over the baseline 10% tariff.