January 10, 2013

Australia's beef and veal exports to Korea have reached 125,956 tonnes in 2012, a 14% drop on 2011, but a rise of 1% on 2010 volumes.

The solid export volumes to Korea last year were assisted by strong demand in the last three months of 2012, making up 35% of total annual exports, as Korean importers secured post Chuseok stocks along with expectations of lower imported beef supply and higher prices in early 2013. The make-up of Australian beef cuts demanded by Korean importers in 2012 remained similar to 2011, with the top five cuts consisting of chuck roll, blade, manufacturing, short ribs and brisket.

Australian offal exports to Korea reached record volumes in 2012, at 23,300 tonn - increasing 6% and 12% on 2011 and 2010 volumes, respectively. The top three cuts, cheek meat, intestines and skirt made up 62% of last year's exports, with intestine volumes increasing 40% on-year. Tripe exports jumped sharply on-year, but remained well below 2010 volumes, while tail volumes decreased 26% on 2011.

Lamb exports from Australia to Korea also reached record volumes for 2012, at 3,009 tonnes - increasing 10% and 44% on 2011 and 2010 volumes, respectively. Lamb exports were boosted by strong demand for Australian shoulder and breast and flap throughout the year. Mutton exports in 2012 slightly declined on-year due to reduced carcasses shipments.