Nearly 90 percent of exporters reported higher costs in a new survey. File photo. Photo: 123rf
New Zealand exporters are more upbeat about their prospects in the coming year, but continue to be beset by higher costs and market disruptions.
The latest ExportNZ-DHL export barometer shows expectations of improved exports next year have risen to 58 percent of respondents, from 42 percent in last year's survey.
But that has been tempered by nearly 90 percent reporting higher costs, with 55 percent facing supply chain and logistics issues, the high cost of doing business in New Zealand, and the value of the NZ dollar.
DHL NZ vice president Selina Deadman said costs have risen by up to 49 percent for the vast majority of local exporters, but firms were looking for new ways to do business and improve performance.
"Kiwi exporters are exploring new strategic avenues to tackle challenges, including developing new products and services, improving processes to drive productivity, and entering new international markets."
She said new digital tools were available to help look for new markets and customise transport arrangements.
Recent free trade deals with the European Union and UK have also prompted more exporters to sell to new markets, although Australia and the US remained the most popular markets.
ExportNZ executive director Joshua Tan said more help was needed from the government to reach its goal of doubling export earnings over the next decade.
"There are areas where government support would be valued by exporters - support to help them grow their businesses here in New Zealand and leverage market opportunities overseas."