April 21, 2006

Mid-East consumers developing a liking for Australian beef

Australian beef exports to the Middle East made strong gains during the first quarter of 2006, soaring by 55 percent on 2005 levels to 844 tonnes.

Dubai is still the major destination for Australian beef in the Middle East, accounting for a total of 358 tonnes.

However, growth in beef exports to Dubai for the March quarter was only 11 percent on year ago levels, despite bans on competing Brazilian beef products.

Shipments of grainfed beef to the high-end foodservice sector continue to grow, increasing by 51 percent to 44 tonnes.

Meanwhile, exports to Saudi Arabia have skyrocketed.

First quarter exports were 8 times that of the March 2005 quarter at 285 tonnes, largely due to stronger demand and retail chains hoping to diversify their supply sources.