April 15, 2008

Australia beef exports to Russia increase
 

Australian beef exports to Russia reached 4,740 tonnes swt in the March quarter, 12 times greater than the same period last year, Meat and Livestock Australia reported.

The huge increase in exports was driven by a rise in the volume of Australian silverside/outside, chuck and blade, and thick flank/knuckle cuts shipped to Russia.

Russia has been importing more beef from Australia due to the limited supply and high prices of South American beef.

The states of Sao Paulo, Parana and Moto Grosso do Sul in Brazil are still unable to export to Russia due to the foot-and-mouth related ban imposed 3 years ago.

Prices of beef from Brazil are also higher due to limited cattle supplies, the rising Brazilian real and increased local beef demand.

The suspension of beef exports from Argentina also contributed to the increase in demand for Australian beef.