Due to ongoing rebuilding after the nation emerged from drought, Australian sheep numbers are anticipated to reach 78.75 million this year, the highest since 2007.
The increase in sheep populations will result in increased sheep slaughter rates, making Australia the top exporter of sheep meat in the world.
Population of sheep
As the supply increases and manufacturers look for markets for their goods, consumers may notice cheaper meat on grocery shelves. To get high-quality meat to consumers abroad, the sector mainly depends on the export market.
The major markets for Australian sheepmeat are the US and China, but trade negotiations with the EU may change where the meat is sold in that nation. The nation’s flock is still being rebuilt as significant portions of the country come out of the drought, with sheep rancher Frank Deshon maintaining around 10,000 ewes on his Dirranbandi property in south-west Queensland.
- Australian sheep reach 78.75 million this year due to drought recovery.
- Australian sheepmeat market shifts due to EU trade negotiations.
- MLA forecasts record high lamb output in 2022, decreasing supplies through 2024.
As producers replenish their flocks as a result of increased confidence brought on by successful seasons, more sheep and lamb enter the market.
According to MLA forecasts, lamb output would surpass the previous record of 534,500 tonnes in 2022 and reach a record high of 540,000 tonnes. After years of production led to a decrease in supplies, output will continue to rise through 2024 before slowing down in 2025.
More markets for Australian producers might open up as a result of trade negotiations between Australia and the European Union. Anthony Albanese, the prime minister of Australia, called for improved access to the European Union market for exports of sheep meat, beef, sugar, cheese, and rice.
The parties will get together once more to continue talking in August. While producers might need to wait a bit longer to gain access to new overseas markets, Australian families may benefit at the grocery store counter from the rise in domestic supply of sheepmeat.
