April 13, 2007

Australia's live cattle exports up in February

Australian live cattle exports during February increased 20 percent to 36,287 heads compared to the same period last year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Australia mainly exports live cattle to Indonesia but this month also saw a significant increase to Israel.

Live cattle exports to Indonesia was up 9 percent on-year in February to 21,852 head but was 30 percent below that of January this year.

Cattle exports is expected to be lower in the next few months as Australia's currency is currently gaining strength against the Indonesian rupiah. 

The Australian dollar in February 2007 has been 3 percent higher than the same period last year.

Exports to Israel (8,211 head)  increased while that to Japan (1,500 head) remained stable. Exports to both Malaysia (2,953 head) was down 35 percent on-year.

Other destinations for Australia's live cattle include Brunei, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.