New Zealand’s export earnings from seafood are on the rise, with aquaculture leading the way, says Fisheries Minister Stuart Nash.

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ Situation and Outlook report for June 2018 predicts New Zealand’s seafood export earnings will grow from $1.8 billion to $2.1 billion by June 2022.

“Aquaculture is set to be the main driver for the forecast growth, thanks largely to increased mussel harvests, and higher prices as demand continues to grow in key markets,” says Mr Nash.

“We expect hatchery-bred spat to be a boon for mussel production. We are already seeing better mussels as a result of hatchery spat produced through the SPATnz Primary Growth Partnership programme.

“We are also seeing salmon production increasing with three new farms operating in the Marlborough Sounds. 

“Aquaculture export earnings are forecast to reach $430 million this year and reach nearly $600 million in 2022. Export earnings for New Zealand’s wild capture fish products are expected to reach $1.4 billion this year and climb to $1.5 billion in 2022.

“We expect to see higher prices as a result of more people wanting to eat fish and reduced global supply due to China’s plans to reduce its catch,” says Mr Nash.

“It is clear the environmental credibility of our seafood products will be a vital factor in our export success. The Marine Stewardship Council has certified many of our fisheries as sustainable. Further certification of this kind will support export prices.

“Innovative approaches to harvesting will also play their role.  This Government’s recent regulation changes have allowed the use of innovative trawl technology to allow more precise fishing and to produce high quality products such as those under the new Tiaki brand.”

A proposal to repeal Three Strikes is not going before Cabinet today on the basis that New Zealand First have indicated they would be unlikely to support it, says Justice Minister Andrew Little.