May 15, 2012

Japan's beef consumption up 9% on year

The Japanese Agriculture and Livestock Industries Corporation released the country's beef consumption figures for March that showed a 9% on-year increase to 74,309 tonnes (boneless equivalent).

The on-year increase was partly due to the low volumes of March last year - a result of the East Japan earthquake. Additionally, the increased distribution of the US beef in the market also contributed to the growth in 2012. March consumption of imported beef lifted 13% on last year, and was 11% higher than the five year average.

In the Australian beef export trading this week, Japanese interest was reportedly mixed, although some trade noted on improved inquiry compared with last week, especially for some barbecue items such as tongues and skirts. Spot grain fed set offers remained extremely limited.