New Zealand’s trade balance deteriorated further in September 2026, with the deficit expanding to NZ$1,971 million, according to data updated on 18 October 2026. This compares with a revised shortfall of NZ$1,536 million recorded in August 2026, indicating a month‑over‑month weakening in the country’s external position.
On a month‑over‑month basis, the September figure represents a larger gap between exports and imports than in the previous month, when the August deficit had already widened compared with July. The latest data signal a continuation of pressure on New Zealand’s trade account as imports outpace exports heading into the final quarter of the year.
The comparison framework shows the “Actual” value reflects the change in September relative to August, while the “Previous” captures the August shift versus July. With the deficit increasing in both periods, the trend underscores mounting imbalances in New Zealand’s goods trade over late winter and early spring 2026.
