Australia's Beef Exports are on Track for a Record.

Australia's Beef Exports Reach Record Levels

Australia has managed to set a new record in beef exports as the year comes to a close. Thanks to rising U.S. demand and stable exports, beef shipments reached 1.4 million tons in the first 11 months of 2023, representing a 15 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

The U.S., Australia’s Largest Export Market

According to data from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), despite a 10 percent tariff on American cattle, the U.S. remains Australia's largest beef customer. Following the tariff imposed by the Trump administration, rising prices for American red meat and a decrease in herd numbers have increased import demands for Australian beef. Trump’s promise to reduce import tariffs in November further strengthened this demand.

Strong Demand Report from International Management

MLA states that demand from the U.S. is strong and persistent. It was noted that, “Even during the tariff period, the extraordinarily strong demand from the U.S. supported Australian beef exports.”

Significant Growth in the Asian Market

As of November, beef exports to the U.S. rose by 17 percent to 412,000 tons. In the China market, this figure reached 243,000 tons, representing a 43 percent increase. Additionally, Japan and South Korea also stand out as other important markets with strong demand.

Production Increase Expected in Coming Years

According to MLA data, Australia’s beef production could set a new record by 2025. While herd numbers are shrinking due to ongoing drought conditions in the southeast of the country, the increase in global demand will help Australia secure a strong position as it moves towards 2026.

MLA International Markets General Manager Andrew Cox stated, “Global beef demand is rapidly increasing, and Australia is well-positioned to take advantage of this momentum.”