Despite a muted result in live animal shipments, Australia’s livestock exports showed remarkable growth in 2025, especially in the red meat categories, setting new records. This growth demonstrates the industry’s adaptability and worldwide competitiveness, which are bolstered by strong demand from important foreign markets. Platforms like KG2 at kg2.com.au provide crucial reporting tools for Australian producers and exporters to keep an eye on these developments and guarantee regulatory compliance.
Red Meat Export Achievements
By exporting 2.24 million tonnes of red meat to 104 nations in 2025—the most amount ever recorded, Australia reached a historic milestone. This accomplishment demonstrates the country’s strong supply chain and superior products in supplying the world’s protein demands. Important highlights include:
Exports of beef totalled 1.34 million tonnes, up 22% from 2024 and 4% more than the previous high.
Shipments of goatmeat (51,489 tonnes), lamb (359,229 tonnes), and mutton (255,098 tonnes) reached all-time highs. Due to premium pricing and increased market access, the overall value of these exports increased to $15.2 billion, an 18% increase from the previous year. These figures position Australia as a leading supplier, benefiting from favourable trade conditions and sustained consumer confidence abroad
The main markets and influencing factors
87% of red meat exports were made possible by strategic free trade agreements, which improved access to high-value destinations. This growth was driven by demand from a variety of countries, and significant changes in import patterns reflected the dynamics of world supply.
Among the notable marketplaces were:
- USA- Despite domestic herd restrictions, the United States became the biggest buyer of beef at 394,716 tonnes (a 60% increase), lamb at 85,133 tonnes, and goatmeat at 27,599 tonnes.
- China- With 95,622 tonnes, China is the top importer of mutton.
- Southeast Asia- the region had a 33% increase in beef exports to 177,684 tons.
- South Korea- Further increases in South Korea (mutton up 28%) and Japan (beef up 15%).
These patterns show how Australia’s reputation for traceability and biosecurity, together with geopolitical and economic circumstances, have increased export quantities.
Overview of Live Livestock Exports
On the other hand, live cattle exports decreased by 12% from the previous year to 1,168,281 head, valued at $911 million. Although market-specific issues contributed to this moderation, the industry upheld excellent standards for animal welfare.The
Notable features included:
- Nearly 50% of cargo, mostly to Indonesia, were handled by the Darwin port, which saw a 16% increase in cattle exports.
- As a result of modified supply responses, sheep exports fell by 37%.
Cattle and sheep mortality rates at record lows of 0.06% and 0.12%, respectively, indicating continued investments in journey management and husbandry techniques. These advancements uphold Australia’s reputation as a conscientious exporter that places equal emphasis on moral principles and economic feasibility.
Projections and Strategic Implications
Beef exports are expected to remain strong through 2026 due to ongoing global supply limitations and herd rebuilding. The recent $5 billion increase in broader agricultural exports indicates that the industry is still growing. Integrating cutting-edge reporting solutions is essential for companies in this industry. KG2’s kg2.com.au platform offers real-time insights into market movements, export statistics, and compliance requirements. This makes it possible for producers to:
- Keep an accurate track of cargo values and volumes.
- Make sure that international regulations are followed.
- Determine new prospects in markets with rapid growth.
Australian cattle operations can benefit from the 2025 accomplishments and set themselves up for long-term growth by utilising such techniques. In order to fulfil changing global demands, the sector’s trajectory offers a promising prospect by balancing volume expansion with quality assurance.
Conclusion
Despite a 12% decline in live shipments, Australia’s livestock exports in 2025 reached records for red meat at 2.24 million tonnes ($15.2 billion), driven by growth in beef to important markets like the US and China. Producers can use KG2 tools at kg2.com.au for compliance and a competitive advantage, as 2025 estimates are robust amid a $5 billion increase in agricultural exports and a herd recovery.
Contact us to know more about livestock reporting on export growth – KG2 Australia.
Recent Comments