NZ Wine Exports Into China Surge 136%

11 Sep NZ Wine Exports Into China Surge 136%

New Zealand white wines have made a serious splash in China, riding a surge in demand that pushed imports up 136% by volume in July, as shipments from France, Australia and Chile slumped.

According to the latest customs data, imports of New Zealand wine surged in July, with volumes jumping 136.39% year-on-year to 738,919 litres and value rising 74.28% to USD 5.79 million.

The trend highlights the growing appeal of New Zealand white wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc, among China’s younger and increasingly female consumer base, as well as more health-conscious individuals across genders.

In addition, New Zealand white wine is also getting traction in corporate banquets, a segment long dominated by red wine, as well as corporate gifting and team-building events.

Despite the surge in demand, caution is urged as some of this could be due to oversupply and shifting demand in other markets.

Data from New Zealand Winegrowers shows the U.S., U.K., and Australia still account for over 70% of exports, but all three saw declines in the 2024 fiscal year. In 2025, U.S. and U.K. volumes recovered slightly, though at lower prices, while Australia continued to fall in both volume and value. Mainland China, by contrast, has logged two straight years of growth, with 2025 exports up 55% by volume and 47% by value, making it New Zealand’s fifth-largest export market.

Bulk wine from New Zealand typically sold for NZD 4-5 per litre, but some has recently gone to China for just NZD 1-2 per litre, which could partly explain the spike in import figures. But whether these wines translate into real consumption – or simply sit in warehouses – remains the key question.

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