Australia has set record highs for red meat exports in 2024, with beef, lamb, mutton, and goatmeat all achieving historic volumes, according to Meat & Livestock Australia.
The country exported 2.24 million tonnes of red meat to 104 countries, the largest volume on record.
Beef exports reached 1.34 million tonnes, a 22% increase from 2023, with the United States and Southeast Asia driving growth.
Lamb exports grew 10%, totalling 359,229 tonnes, led by strong demand from the US and a significant rise in exports to the UK following the implementation of the Australia-UK free trade agreement.
Mutton exports rose 22% to 255,098 tonnes, with China remaining the largest market.
Goatmeat exports totalled 51,489 tonnes, a 44% increase from the previous record, with the US as the top market.
Tim Jackson, MLA's global supply analyst, credited the strong performance to favourable global market conditions, rising domestic supply, and Australia’s advantageous market access.
In 2024, Australia's cattle herd and sheep flock matured, boosting slaughter rates and production. With 87% of red meat exports going to countries with free trade agreements, Australia’s competitive advantage remained strong.
Despite global economic pressures, demand for high-quality Australian red meat remained resilient, with the US being the largest importer of beef, lamb, and goatmeat, and China leading in mutton imports.