Australia: Livestock and Products Semi-annual
Australian cattle numbers are expected to slightly increase in 2018, although the seasonal outlook remains uncertain. Pasture growth has been variable and a worsening of dry conditions could increase slaughter rates in some regions. Slaughter is forecast at 7.9 million in 2018, with beef and veal production expected to increase to 2.2 million MT, due to rising carcass weights. Beef and veal exports are forecast at 1.5 million MT due to higher production. Supply constraints and lower demand are expected to decrease live cattle exports to 0.9 million head. Post forecasts pig slaughter at 5.3 million, with pig meat production expanding to 0.42 million MT in 2018.
