October 17, 2017

Higher Japan tariff disrupts New Zealand export of frozen beef
 

The increase of Japan's frozen beef tariff has caused New Zealand's export of the meat to the country to plunge. 

Japan has raised its tariff on frozen beef by 50% in August, a significant jump from 38.5%. The move was implemented with accordance to a World Trade Organisation safeguard following high sales of imported beef.

As a result, only 729 tonnes of New Zealand frozen beef reached Japan in August and September, compared to 1,709 tonnes in the same period of 2016 and the five-year average of 1,840 tonnes, AgriHQ reported. 

Until the cessation of the tariff in April 2018, there will be "little" frozen products delivered into Japan by New Zealand, AgriHQ analyst Reece Brick said.

New  Zealand red meat and byproducts find their fifth biggest market in Japan, with exports amounting to more than $302 million in the 2016 calendar year.

- Sky News Australia