Australian chilled beef exports to South Korea from January to April hit a new record at 10,512 tonnes shipped weight, according to Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA).

Exports to the country - which have been affected by two FMD outbreaks so far this year – have increased by almost a third as against the previous year. Australia has sent a record amount of beef to South Korea so far this year.

During this period, chilled beef made up 30% of the total beef volume sent to Korea, compared with 26% for the same period last year.

Australian chilled chuck roll accounted for 22%, while short ribs and blade each made up 14% of chilled beef exports.

The foot-and-mouth outbreak in Korea, which imports 90% of its beef, has prompted a 12-30% increase in chicken sales over the four weeks from April 8, when the second outbreak was detected, according to local media.