New Zealand’s red meat exports reached a record high of $10 billion in 2021, according to figures from the Meat Industry Association (MIA).

Despite the continued disruption caused by Covid-19, exports represented a nine per cent increase on 2020. 

The value of red meat and related products exported in December 2021 was also up 22 per cent compared to the previous year, at just over $1 billion.

Sirma Karapeeva, chief executive of MIA, said the red meat sector has worked tirelessly in the face of ongoing global logistical challenges to continue to achieve the best possible results. 

“Despite all the disruptions and labour shortages, we were able to make the most of the global demand for red meat and generate record export revenue.

“The sector is continuing to perform for New Zealand in the most difficult conditions. However, supply chain challenges will significantly disrupt exports for some time to come and we do not yet know what impact that will have on the Easter chilled trade.”

Overall, both sheep meat and beef exports increased by five per cent and nine per cent respectively, with both worth more than $4 billion for the year.

Co-product exports also increased by 19 per cent, to almost $2 billion.

China remained the largest overall importer (4 per cent), followed by the US (20 per cent), the UK (4 per cent) and Japan (4 per cent).