New Zealand goods imports rose by NZ$2.1 billion in July to NZ$9.3 billion compared with the same period last year, according to a report released by Stats NZ on Friday.
Meanwhile, goods exports rose by NZ$881 million to NZ$7.4 billion.
Total annual imports were valued at NZ$89.8 billion, up NZ$9 billion on last year, with petroleum and petroleum products leading the rise, up NZ$2.3 billion to NZ$12.1 billion.
"Fuel accounted for one-quarter of the rise in the overall value of imports in the year ended July 2026," international accounts spokesperson Shanna Dilworth said.
Total annual exports were valued at NZ$84.6 billion, up NZ$7.9 billion on last year.
The annual trade deficit increased to NZ$5.2 billion in July, compared with NZ$4.2 billion in July 2025, the report said.

