October 13, 2008

Australia's beef and veal exports have recovered in September, following August's decline partly due to a trucking strike in Queensland, according to Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

Exports in September totalled 83,553 tonnes swt, up 15 percent on-year.

Australia shipped 9,349 tonnes of beef to South Korea during the month, down 10 percent on-year, as US beef continues to establish its presence in the market.

Exports to the US also dropped 12 percent on-year to 22,117 tonnes swt, with shipments for January to September down 34 percent on-year to 152,451 tonnes, the lowest level since 1996.

Shipments to Japan and Indonesia climbed 13-percent and 16-percent higher respectively than a year ago, while volumes to the Philippines and Taiwan also increased significantly.

The CIS states, namely Russia, continue to import large volumes of Australian beef, buying about 5,059 tonnes in September, up from 1,000 tonnes in September 2007.