New Zealand's primary producers could be our saving grace as an economic storm brews.

Our food and fibre export revenue is on track to reach record heights, in what's hoped will help protect New Zealanders from the global downturn.

The Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report released today, shows food and fibre exports are tracking to grow to $55 billion in the coming year - up almost $3 billion from forecasts made earlier in the year.

Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor told Mike Hosking it's a brilliant outcome.

He says they usually undershoot in their predictions, and may reap even more than the $55 billion dollars they've forecast.

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