New Zealand wine exports rise despite global stagnation

By James Lawrence

Published: 23 September, 2026

Against a challenging backdrop for the country's wine industry, New Zealand wine exports climbed from 288.8 million to 306.2 million litres in the 12 months to June 2026, although value remained broadly flat at NZ$2.1bn.

According to New Zealand Winegrowers' latest annual report, the increase reflected an overall sales increase of 8% driven by export growth, representing the industry’s second-highest June year total on record.

The report stated: “In the face of a challenging global and domestic environment, New Zealand wine continued to outperform the wider category in key markets, providing grounds for confidence in the long-term prospects of New Zealand wine.

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“At the same time, individual businesses across the sector were making adjustments. Vintage 2026 delivered a smaller harvest of approximately 440,000 tonnes, down a significant 15% on the previous year, bringing production into closer balance with current market demand and supporting the industry’s focus on sustainable long- term growth.”

However, export value was only marginally higher than the NZ$2.098bn recorded in the previous 12 months to June 2025.

NZ Winegrowers chair Fabian Yukich commented: “This has been a challenging year across the global wine industry, but New Zealand wine continues to show remarkable resilience. What stands out is the determination of growers and wineries to adapt. Businesses in the sector are making adjustments; the progress made this year gives us confidence that it is moving towards a more balanced footing.”

Exports remain critical to the sector, accounting for around 90% of New Zealand wine sales. The report underlined strong performance in several key markets, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and China.

Indeed, exports to China increased by 72% in the 12 months, while shipments to South Korea rose 20%.

The organisation also pointed to the signing of the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement as a longer-term opportunity, with the deal providing for gradual reductions in tariffs on New Zealand wine.

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