February 5, 2009
Australia live cattle exports up 20 percent in 2008
Overseas demand for Australian cattle in 2008 has delivered record returns and soaring volumes, with a 20-percent increase in live cattle export numbers, said Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).
Australia exported 869,545 cattle last year, up 150,000 head from 2007, at a value of A$644 million (US$414 million).
MLA livestock exports manager, Michael Finucan, said Indonesia took its largest ever volume of Australian cattle last year.
Of the total cattle exports, Indonesia accounted for 75 percent at a value of A$419 million (US$269.4 million). Indonesia's import volume was up 26 percent from 2007 levels.
The markets of Israel and Libya continue to grow, with Israel as the second largest market for Australian cattle. These markets are anticipated to remain strong in 2009.
Russia purchased 20,071 head of breeding cattle last year, becoming the fourth largest market for Australian live cattle exports, as Russia sough to rebuild its herds and improve domestic production.
Overseas demand for Australian live cattle is expected to remain strong, especially from Indonesia and the Middle East/North Africa, as these markets are still expanding and are reaping the benefits of the weaker Australian dollar.
However, herd rebuilding efforts in Australia's Northern Territory are expected to restrict export supplies in 2009, with total shipments projected to fall 6 percent on-year.
