New Zealand aquaculture export revenue up 13 per cent to $650m

New Zealand’s aquaculture sector is projected to reach $650 million in export revenue for the year to June 30, an increase of 13 per cent on the previous year, according to new government figures.

The data, from the latest situation and outlook for primary industries report, shows the increase has been driven by higher production of mussels and salmon. The wider seafood sector's export revenue is forecast to rise two per cent to $2.2 billion, with a slight decrease in export volume being offset by the highest per-kilogram price on record for New Zealand seafood.

Oceans and Fisheries Minister, Shane Jones, said the results show progress on the government's plan to grow the aquaculture industry to $3 billion in annual revenue by 2035. He noted the government is taking steps to remove barriers for the industry by extending marine consents and including open-ocean aquaculture in the fast-track approvals act.

The government has also invested $11.72 million in a project aimed at boosting open-ocean aquaculture, Jones added.