April 20, 2009

Japan's imported beef consumption in February increased 14 percent on-year to 38,275 tonnes, the highest February volume since 2003, according to the Agriculture and Livestock Industries Corporation of Japan.

The increase was largely caused by lower import costs due to the weak Australian dollar and low export prices from Australia, and the decline in retail prices and strong sales performance of the fast food sector.

In comparison, consumption of Japanese domestic beef fell seven percent from last year to 26,931 tonnes.

Overall, beef consumption in February totalled 65,206 tonnes, up four percent on-year.

About 78 percent of Japan's imported beef are from Australia.