Chilled export venison schedules up 25 per cent and velvet demand stable

Spring venison schedules for chilled exports are 25 per cent above last year, currently up to $8.85 per kilogram. While this does not match lamb and beef values, exporters are optimistic about venison’s outlook. Cooler temperatures meant slow weight gain for weaners. As spiker velvet extends venison pricing by $1 per kilogram, many farmers will chase additional body weight, then sell into the lower priced though more linear frozen market. 

Velvet growth and market demand is slightly slower this season. After aggressive purchasing last season followed by its slower economy this year, China holds more stock than normal. However New Zealand’s main velvet market, South Korea, is still increasing consumption and its range of healthy food products.

After our recent trip to the market, the first time we have gone in three years, PGG Wrightson Velvet has initiated minimum price contracts with larger growers at levels above last season’s average prices. Traceability and animal welfare are the two most critical areas for the deer industry to stay ahead of competitors and retain New Zealand’s vital market access. 

Tony Cochrane, PGG Wrightson National Velvet Manager