New Zealand Sets Target to Double Education Export Value by 2027

WELLINGTON, 28 June 2025 – New Zealand has announced a bold plan to double the value of its international education sector to NZ$4.4 billion by 2027, as part of a wider strategy to rebuild the industry following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The goal was unveiled by Education New Zealand (ENZ), aligning with the country’s International Education Strategy 2022–2030. The move marks a significant economic and diplomatic effort to re-establish New Zealand as a top-tier study destination.

“International education has made a good start to its recovery with more than 69,000 enrolments in the first full academic year since borders reopened,” said Dr. Linda Sissons, Acting Chief Executive of ENZ. “The government has a goal of doubling the value of export earnings in ten years, and international education has its part to play.”

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According to ENZ, the sector contributed NZ$2.2 billion to the New Zealand economy in 2023, and the plan now is to grow that figure to NZ$4.4 billion within three years. This will involve increasing international student enrolments to 100,000 by 2027, up from 69,000 in 2023.

Focus on Key Growth Markets

To achieve this, ENZ will expand recruitment efforts in priority markets such as India, Vietnam, and the Philippines, while also targeting specific segments in Japan and Thailand. The strategy also includes strengthening ties with traditional markets like China and India, while diversifying outreach to ensure long-term sustainability.

“We need to start now to grow awareness of New Zealand in these markets if we are to achieve our growth targets,” Dr. Sissons added.

Strong Student Satisfaction Fuels Optimism
The renewed drive comes amid strong results from the 2024 International Student Experience Survey, which captured feedback from over 6,400 international students in New Zealand. The survey revealed that 86% of respondents rated their study experience positively, with many praising the country’s welcoming people, education quality, and support systems.

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The survey also highlighted high satisfaction with education agents and application processes, reinforcing New Zealand’s appeal as a student-friendly destination.

ENZ Strategy Enters Innovation Phase

At the recent New Zealand International Education Conference (NZIEC), ENZ officials shared a forward-looking plan to distinguish New Zealand in an increasingly competitive global education market. The agency is piloting new branding initiatives and marketing tools, including a “mixed reality” virtual experience to engage prospective students worldwide.

ENZ has identified agri-food systems, aerospace technology, and renewable energy as niche sectors where New Zealand has a defensible global advantage. These focus areas will serve as anchor points for the country’s education marketing and future academic offerings.

“This is not about working in a field,” said Christina Gomes, ENZ’s Director of Innovation and Growth. “It’s about everything from soil science to food design and global supply chains. This is where the future lies.”

New Leadership, Renewed Vision
Since October 2024, ENZ has been under the leadership of Chief Executive Amanda Malu, who brings experience from both the education and public sectors. Her tenure is expected to emphasize both market growth and public trust in the value of international education.“Maintaining public support for international education is a priority,” Malu said.

As global student mobility continues to shift, New Zealand’s multi-pronged strategy aims to cement its reputation as a high-quality, student-first destination, while contributing significantly to the national economy.