Assessment of US and Canadian Beef access to Australia finalised
Comment attributable to Michael Crowley, Managing Director at Meat & Livestock Australia
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) acknowledges the completion of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) review into the importation of beef from the United States and Canada.
Following an extensive review, DAFF and the competent authorities in both countries have finalised health certification and import permit conditions. As a result, both US and Canadian beef will be permitted entry into Australia.
It is important to note that US beef has technically had access to the Australian market since 2019 but has exported negligible volumes during that time.
Support for Australian Beef
More than 99% of beef available in Australian supermarkets, pubs and restaurants is Australian beef.
Australians can and should continue to enjoy it with confidence. It’s world-class, locally produced, and supports thousands of farming families and regional communities.
Australia produces approximately three times more beef than needed to feed our population. Around 70% of our production is exported to global markets.
Minimal market impact
The impact of US and Canadian beef entering Australia is expected to be minimal. It is unlikely there will be an adverse effect on Australian cattle producers.
The potential for US beef to be imported into Australia in large volumes is minimal, given the high demand for beef in the US, the low US cattle herd, the strength of the Australian dollar, our competitive domestic supply, and most importantly Australians’ strong preference for high-quality, tasty and nutritious Australian beef.
In fact, demand for Australian beef in the US continues to grow. In June 2025, exports to the US rose 24% year-on-year, despite a 10% tariff introduced in April. US consumers value the quality, taste and nutritional profile of Australian beef. Australian beef compliments the US production system and there remains strong demand for Australian beef in the US market
The American cattle herd is currently at its lowest point since 1951. The American industry relies on imports to meet its own domestic demand. Australia and the US have had a free trade agreement in place for over 20 years and are long term trading partners.
Biosecurity considerations
Australia maintains one of the strictest biosecurity regimes in the world to protect our livestock industries, environment, and food safety.
The Australian Government decision to permit beef imports from the United States and Canada follows a comprehensive risk assessment, ensuring that all biosecurity protocols and import conditions meet Australia’s high standards.
The finalised federal government health certification and import permit conditions reflect stringent safeguards to prevent the introduction of exotic diseases and uphold the integrity of Australia’s biosecurity system.
MLA supports science-based decision-making and the continued vigilance of our national biosecurity framework to protect the interests of Australian producers and consumers.
