Beef exports break new ground in 2025

22 Jan 2026

Key points

Total beef exports reached over 1.5 million tonnes in 2025 – the first time this milestone has been reached in a calendar year.
Australian beef was exported to 83 countries in 2025.
The demand outlook for 2026 is strong, with other major exporters expected to produce less beef.

Beef exports hit a record in 2025, with volumes reaching over 1.5 million tonnes. Total beef exports rose to 1,545,784 tonnes – up 15% compared to 2024. Grassfed exports rose 13% year-on-year (YoY) to 1,096,456 tonnes. Grainfed exports rose 20% YoY to 449,292 tonnes. Both figures are calendar year records.

The United States (US) remained the largest market, with exports rising to 453,292 tonnes (up 15% from 2024). This rise is partly due to a fall in US domestic beef production, paired with Australia’s strong reputation as a reliable and quality red meat supplier.

Outside of the US, exports to major north Asian markets were also strong. Exports YoY increased to China (up 41% to 272,940 tonnes), Japan (up 4% to 257,379 tonnes) and South Korea (up 10% to 221,350 tonnes).

total Aus beef exports

Source: DAFF, MLA

Record export volumes were driven by strong overseas markets’ demand, alongside firm domestic production. Around the world, Australian beef is highly regarded for its consistency, quality and utility in a wide variety of culinary contexts. In a global environment where other major exporters are producing less – especially the US – Australian beef has continued increased market share within existing markets while also entering new ones. In 2025, Australian beef was exported to 83 different countries − the largest number since 2015.

Looking ahead, it’s likely major beef-exporting countries will reduce exports in 2026. Cow and heifer slaughter in the US has been elevated, despite falling production volumes − suggesting the herd rebuild has not yet commenced in earnest.

At the same time, Brazilian production likely peaked in 2025 or will peak in 2026 before falling. This is because of cow and heifer slaughter reaching record highs, paired with the Brazilian herd contracting for several years. In that context, the demand outlook for Australian beef exports looks positive.

Attribute content to Tim Jackson, MLA Global Supply Analyst.

Information is correct at time of publication on 23 January 2026.

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