New Zealand's Plant & Food Research has released its annual Fresh Facts report, highlighting a 3% rise in horticultural exports in the year to Jun. 30, 2011.

A Plant & Food Research release said the industry accounted for 7.5% of exports with a value of close to NZ$3.5 billion (US$2.8 billion), while the production value was calculated to be worth NZ$6.4 billion (US$5 billion) annually.

"New Zealand is known globally as a supplier of premium horticultural products. Our wine sector has had huge success in growing the popularity of Sauvignon blanc, due to its unique flavours," said CEO Peter Landon-Lane.

"Similarly, our fruit sector is known for introducing novel products with great taste profiles. Added to this, our production systems are known to exceed sustainability and phytosanitary requirements. This innovation and diversification has allowed us to create and maintain a premium in the global marketplace."

Australia is New Zealand's largest horticultural export destination with shipments worth around NZ$756 million (US$598 million), having quintrupled since 2000.

Fresh fruit shipments are worth NZ$1.5 billion (US$1.18 billion) annually, while kiwifruit make up around two thirds of that figure. Wine accounts for NZ$1.1 billion (US$871 million), while vegetables make up NZ$614 million (US$486 million).

Click here to watch Plant & Food's video summary.

www.freshfruitportal.com