March 18, 2013

During January-February 2013, Australian beef shipments to South America declined 123% significantly on-year to total 906 tonnes swt.

In 2012, Australian exports to South America totalled 19,161 tonnes swt, with Chile, the major destination, representing 85% of total exports.

According to ODEPA (Agriculture Department – Chile) Chilean beef imports in January rose 75% on-year, to 10,834 tonnes swt, with imports from Brazil up 162%, to 5,783 tonnes swt. Along with Brazil, Argentina volumes also increased, up 25%, to 2,290 tonnes swt, with larger volumes also registered by Uruguay (up 62%) and US (up 105%).

In contrast, Australian beef exports during the first two months of the year to Chile decreased 67% on-year, to 620 tonnes swt. Along with proximity, lower cattle export prices assisted Brazil and Argentina's competitive position during this period.

Despite the decline in shipments to Chile, Australian beef exports to Brazil continued to increase in the first two months of 2013, up 93% on-year, to 286 tonnes swt. Brazil is mainly importing primal cuts with the main cut frozen rump representing 93% of total shipments.