Fiji has cemented its position as the dominant supplier of imported eggplant to New Zealand, accounting for virtually 100 percent of all imported eggplant entering the market between 2021 and 2024.
According to Pacific Trade Invest New Zealand (PTI NZ), Fiji’s success has been driven by consistent quality, growing demand and favourable market conditions that continue to create opportunities for Pacific exporters.
Import values of Fiji-grown eggplant increased steadily from NZ$1.15 million in 2021 to NZ$1.79 million in 2024, highlighting strong growth in the sector.
PTI NZ said Fiji’s performance was particularly impressive given the significant increase in prices achieved over the four-year period.
“Even more telling is the price story: eggplants from Fiji fetched NZ$6.86 per kilogram in 2024, up from NZ$3.99 in 2021 – a 72 percent price increase in just four years.”
“That’s not luck; it’s the reward for consistent quality.”
The organisation noted that Fiji’s exporters have been able to capitalise on supply gaps in the New Zealand market.
While local production exists, PTI NZ said a single glasshouse operation near Auckland supplies around 80 percent of New Zealand’s domestically grown eggplant, leaving significant off-season opportunities for imported produce.
“Domestically, a single glasshouse operation near Auckland supplies around 80 percent of locally grown eggplant, leaving off-season windows wide open for Pacific exporters.”
PTI NZ also pointed to changing consumer preferences as another factor supporting future growth.
Demand for plant-based foods continues to rise across New Zealand, increasing the use of eggplant in a variety of products and meals.
“Add growing consumer demand for plant-based ingredients from baba ganoush to vegan burger patties and the case for expanding Pacific eggplant exports to New Zealand has never been stronger.”
The findings highlight the growing importance of horticultural exports as a source of foreign exchange and economic opportunity for Fiji’s agricultural sector.
PTI NZ believes the combination of market dominance, rising prices and increasing consumer demand presents a strong platform for Fiji to further expand its presence in New Zealand’s fresh produce market.
