November 9, 2012

Australia's beef trade reflects rising demand from Brazil and Chile for high quality beef as exports to South America increase 37% in the first ten months of 2012.

Underpinning the rise in exports to South America has been an increase in shipments to Chile, up 30% on-year, to 15,198 tonne - 90% chilled beef. Australian beef is reportedly recognised by the Chilean consumer as a higher quality product from a reliable and safe production system.

Australian beef exports to Brazil for January to October 2012 have doubled on-year, reaching 2,395 tonnes. Brazil imports mainly primal cuts from Australia, with the main cut frozen rump - representing 86% of total shipments (2,057 tonnes).

The significant growth in the middle class population has increased protein consumption in both Brazil and Chile. Along with Australia, Uruguay has also increased exports to Brazil in 2012, rising 4% on-year, to 9,047 tonnes, while shipments to Chile have surged 82%, to 17,994 tonnes.