May 3, 2012

Japan's beef import subsides in March

Japan imported 37,370 tonnes of beef in March, down 13% from last year and the lowest March volume since 2009, while the intake from Australia was down 24% on-year, to 23,674 tonnes.

Imports from the US during the month totalled 9,280 tonnes (up 19% on last year), with chilled items taking up 61% of total US volume (at 5,628 tonnes, 24% higher than 2011). The weaker USD continued to assist import growth, despite reportedly strong offer prices from US packers.

The increased price competitiveness of US beef, combined with subdued demand for higher value protein in the market, reduced chilled beef imports from Australia during March to 10,814 tonnes, down 30% from last year.