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Beef farmers flex to defend Japan gains
10 May 2004
Australian beef producers are shaping up for a battle over one of their key markets as Japan announced it will soon resume importing beef from the US following a six-month ban. The ban, due to the discovery of BSE in the US, meant record shipments of Australian beef in the first quarter, Meat and Livestock Australia said. Prices were also above 2003 levels and volumes up for grass and grain-fed beef.
In the year to March, Australian beef accounted for 90 per cent of beef imports in Japan, up from 48 per cent the previous year, and the value of Australian beef exports rose 44 per cent.
The record levels may not last much longer, however, as the US may resume its trading relationship with Japan by mid-year. The Cattle Council of Australia said it has to shore up its new customers of Australian beef, with the industry embarking on several programs highlighting safety and quality.
Australian Financial Review, 10/5/04.
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