New Zealand’s trade balance deteriorated further in February 2026, with the deficit widening to NZ$3.0 billion, according to updated data released on 19 March 2026. This follows a revised shortfall of NZ$2.3 billion recorded in January 2026.
The February figure marks a deeper negative reading month-on-month and is assessed on a year-over-year basis, comparing February 2026 trade performance with that of February a year earlier. Likewise, January’s NZ$2.3 billion deficit reflected conditions versus the same month in the previous year. The latest data signal mounting pressure on New Zealand’s external position as the country moves through the first quarter of 2026.
