The trade relationship between the United States and New Zealand has been growing steadily over the years. As of 2024, the USA has become New Zealand’s second-largest export destination, surpassing Australia but still behind China. Let’s explore the top 10 most traded products between these two nations, highlighting their importance and impact on both economies.
1. Meat and Edible Meat Offal
Meat products, particularly beef and lamb, are the stars of New Zealand’s exports to the United States. In 2023, meat and edible meat offal exports from New Zealand to the USA reached an impressive $1.38 billion. This category includes:
- Frozen bovine meat
- Sheep and goat meat
- Beef offal
New Zealand’s reputation for high-quality, grass-fed meat has made it a favorite among American consumers. The demand for New Zealand meat in the US market has been steadily increasing, with exports of frozen bovine meat alone reaching $923 million in 2023.
2. Dairy Products, Eggs, Honey, and Edible Products
New Zealand’s dairy industry is world-renowned, and the United States is a significant market for these products. In 2023, exports in this category amounted to $539.59 million. Key products include:
- Milk powder
- Butter
- Cheese
- Honey (especially Manuka honey)
New Zealand’s Manuka honey, in particular, has seen remarkable growth, with an average annual increase of 31% since 2010. The unique properties of this honey have made it highly sought after in the US market.
3. Beverages, Spirits, and Vinegar
Wine is the standout product in this category, with New Zealand wines gaining popularity in the United States. In 2023, beverage exports from New Zealand to the USA reached $509.12 million, with wine accounting for $608 million of that total.
New Zealand’s cool climate and unique terroir have helped produce world-class wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc, which has become a favorite among American wine enthusiasts.
4. Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, and Boilers
This category represents a significant portion of trade in both directions. In 2023, New Zealand exported $396.15 million worth of machinery to the USA, while importing $644 million in gas turbines alone from the United States.
New Zealand has developed expertise in niche areas such as:
- Fruit sorting and packaging machinery
- Electric farm bikes
- Innovative agricultural equipment
These products are enhancing efficiency in US primary production sectors.
5. Optical, Photo, Technical, and Medical Apparatus
This category showcases New Zealand’s growing high-tech industry. A standout product is sleep apnea machines, which accounted for $260 million in exports to the USA in 2020, surpassing traditional exports like timber or casein.
Other products in this category include:
- Medical devices
- Scientific instruments
- Precision equipment
6. Aircraft and Spacecraft
While New Zealand imports more in this category than it exports, it’s a significant area of trade. In 2023, the United States exported $531 million worth of planes, helicopters, and spacecraft to New Zealand.
New Zealand’s “New Space” sector is growing, with companies developing innovative aviation and space technologies, often in collaboration with US firms.
7. Electrical and Electronic Equipment
This category represents the growing importance of technology in trade between the two countries. In 2023, New Zealand exported $243.41 million worth of electrical and electronic equipment to the USA.
Products in this category include:
- Electromagnets
- Electrical static converters
- Various electronic components
8. Wood and Articles of Wood
New Zealand’s forestry industry contributes significantly to its exports to the USA. In 2023, wood and wood product exports reached $211.43 million.
Key products include:
- Timber
- Wood pulp
- Processed wood products
The quality of New Zealand’s sustainably managed forests makes its wood products attractive to US buyers.
9. Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs, and Aquatic Invertebrates
New Zealand’s clean waters and sustainable fishing practices contribute to the popularity of its seafood in the US market. In 2023, exports in this category amounted to $210.41 million.
Notable products include:
- Frozen mussels (overtaking frozen fish as the top seafood export)
- Various fish species
- Other shellfish
10. Fruits and Nuts
While not as large in value as some other categories, fruit exports, especially kiwifruit, have shown strong growth. Kiwifruit exports have grown by an average of 17% annually since 2010.
Other popular fruits exported to the USA include:
- Apples
- Berries
- Avocados
New Zealand’s counter-seasonal production allows it to supply fresh fruits to the US market during the northern hemisphere’s winter months.