Chinese demand for Australian meat set to increase

North Queensland producers can expect an increase in demand for meat exports to China, according to Rabobank senior analyst Wendy Voss.

Voss said that over the past few years, China has become a customer of Australian meat, rather than a competitor. She noted that an increase in personal wealth means more Chinese are looking for quality beef, pork and mutton.

"We're also seeing an urbanisation of the Chinese population and as they move into cities, they're getting better access to meat and income through improved labour situations, so that's another driver. Also, we're finding that as western cuisine spreads throughout China, that has also seen an increase in meat consumption," she said.

She said the Chinese agricultural industry is already under pressure and that places Australian producers in a strong position.