February 18, 2008

Japan triples Wagyu beef exports in 2007

Japanese beef exports in 2007 grew 265 percent, to 271 tonnes, according to Japan's Ministry of Finance.

The amount may seem puny, but at AUS$76,000 per tonne, it does not come cheap. The price suggests shipments are predominantly Wagyu beef, with 68 percent as chilled boneless product.

The increase was largely the result of stronger worldwide demand, marketing initiatives by the Japanese government and the industry's efforts on export certification, according to the Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA). In 2007, the main markets for Japanese beef were the US, Vietnam and Hong Kong.

Hong Kong resumed imports from Japan in May 2007, and has quickly become Japan's third largest market after the US and Vietnam, sourcing 56.8 tonnes, valued at 408 million yen (A$4.1 million). Wagyu beef from Japan is developing a strong position among up-market local restaurants in Hong Kong.

Exports to Vietnam and Malaysia are also expected to grow further this year, while North America (US and Canada) is forecast to take a similar volume to 2007.

Japan is also holding discussions with authorities in China, Singapore and EU to resume Japanese beef imports, which were stopped after Japan reported mad cow disease outbreaks in 2001.