Japan shows strong buying interest for beef on Golden Week

Strong interest in Australian beef from Japan continued last week, as buyers secured shipments in time for Japan's Golden Week holiday season (April 29-May 5).

Competition from other markets such as Korea, US and Russia increased, particularly for some frozen items such as round cuts and trimming items. Japan remained price-conscious as the Australian dollar continues to trade over US$0.90.

US ministerial officials met with the Japanese minister of agriculture last week, in anticipation of the visit by the US Agriculture Secretary next month. It was reported that the US beef import status was one of the key agenda items during the brief meeting. Further discussions will be held regarding the current age restriction (that all US beef must be sourced from cattle less than 21 months of age) in coming months.