Agribusiness Agenda 2026

A sector navigating accelerating change

The context for the 2026 Agenda is one of increasing complexity. Climate volatility, geopolitical disruption, changing consumer expectations and advances in technology are all reshaping global food systems. These forces are not operating in isolation; they are converging, creating both risk and opportunity for Aotearoa New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.

While the sector starts from a position of strength, leaders recognise that maintaining relevance in global markets will require more than continuous optimisation. It will demand targeted, sometimes non-linear change, supported by investment in infrastructure, innovation and capability.

From resilience to future readiness

A strong theme from this year’s Agenda is the need to move beyond short-term responses and embed resilience into long-term decision making. This includes:

• Investing in resilient infrastructure and supply chains;
• Transitioning to climate-adapted production systems;
• Leveraging technology and data to drive productivity; and
• Strengthening market engagement and future food positioning.

Leaders also highlighted that mindset will be critical, embracing experimentation, collaboration and systems thinking to navigate uncertainty and unlock opportunity.

A platform for opportunity

Despite the challenges, the outlook for the sector remains positive.

New Zealand’s food and fibre industry has a long track record of innovation and a strong global reputation for quality, trust and sustainability. These foundations create a platform from which the sector can evolve and lead.

The opportunity now is to lean into change, moving from discussion to deliberate action to ensure long-term resilience, competitiveness and growth.

Now is the time to move from status quo, to status change.