A NEW Rabobank report says the fruit and vegetable trade is rapidly changing, with new growth markets emerging and up-and-coming exporting nations rising in prominence.
This change would challenge New Zealand’s horticulture sector to compete and grow in the export markets of tomorrow, the report says.
“Consumers worldwide are increasingly demanding a higher-value and more interesting range of fruits and vegetables,” Rabobank senior analyst Marc Soccio said.
While Europe remained the world’s leading import market for fresh fruit and vegetables, much of the growth was generated out of the United States and Chinese markets.
The global food and export demand suggested there was room for all export players, the report said. But exporters such as New Zealand would “require some adjustment and continued investment in production and markets to underpin growth and prosperity”.
According to the report, lessons could be learned from up-and-coming exporters regarding investment in infrastructure to unlock the potential of key resources.