The kiwifruit picking season is underway in Gisborne, Hawke's Bay and parts of Bay of Plenty.
Zespri's supply chain general manager, Sally Gardiner, says the early indication is that exports will be similar to last year's 100 million trays.
She says it's been a great growing season with constant rain and high sunshine which means good sized fruit.
Ms Gardiner says the first shipment leaves on Friday heading into Asia and it will be predominantly gold kiwifruit heading to Japan.
That will be closely followed with shipments into China, Taiwan and then to Europe.
Ms Gardiner says Zespri is confident that despite global economic uncertainty, there'll be a strong demand for New Zealand kiwifruit.
