June 15, 2012

Australia's red meat exports reach record high in May
 

Exports of Australian beef and veal are the highest on record, with soaring demand from China and the Middle East pushing the monthly total in May above 100,000 tonnes for the first time.

According to figures from Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) , more than 103,200 tonnes of veal and beef were shipped in the month. The figure overshadows the previous monthly record of 94,693 tonnes in November 2006 and is 19% higher than exports in May last year.

The largest increase was to China, which is likely to import 100,000 tonnes of Australian beef and veal by the end of the year. While recognising that some graziers were doing it tough at present, Minister Ludwig said strong demand for Australian food was positive for the industry.

"This is exactly the time to be investing more to capitalise on opportunities in new markets," Minister Ludwig said.

"Widening the range of export destinations for red meat makes Australian producers less vulnerable to market fluctuations around the world."