Goatmeat snapshot: unpacking the latest insights
16 May 2025
MLA has released its 2025 Global Goat Snapshot, offering a comprehensive and timely analysis of Australia's leading role in the global goatmeat market.
The snapshot delves into the intricacies of supply and demand, providing an overview of essential aspects such as domestic production, supply volumes, pricing, export figures and market access conditions. It also features an analysis of Australia's top goat markets with updated insights on trends that underpin current demand and future opportunities.
Access MLA’s new 2025 Global Goat Snapshot.
Key highlights:
Australian production and supply
In 2024, Australian goatmeat production surged 47% year-on-year, smashing the previous record set in 2023. Since 2020, production and processing volumes have more than tripled, marking the highest output ever recorded. An expanded flock and increased processing capacity have reshaped the sector’s baseline, ushering in a new era of elevated supply.
Domestic market
Although Australia is a net exporter, the local market presents growth opportunities, particularly among niche consumer segments. Building on the success of the 2024 Sydney campaign, the second Goat Trail campaign launched in Melbourne earlier this year to raise awareness and improve product accessibility.
Australian exports
Australia remains the world’s top goatmeat exporter, supplying over half of the global trade volume. In 2024, exports reached a new record volume, 44% above the previous peak set in 2014. A combination of competitive pricing (compared to 2019–2022) and strong demand contributed to a 54% year-on-year rise in total export value.
Exports increased across most key markets. The United States (US) retained its position as the largest market, with volumes more than double those of the next-largest market. South Korea moved to second place, followed by China, which maintained strong demand after a sharp rise in 2023.
MLA’s Market Insights Analyst, Emiliano Diaz, said MLA’s in-market teams continue to receive strong positive feedback from importers about Australian goatmeat.
“The competitive pricing is opening the door to further promote the unique qualities of goatmeat, not only to regular users but also to new consumer segments, building longer-term, sustainable demand,” he said.
Key market overview:
North America
The US remains Australia’s largest market, and Canada is also among the top five. North America absorbed much of 2024’s export growth. Goatmeat remains a niche protein in the region, with demand typically concentrated in ethnically-diverse cities. However, increased availability is helping to attract new consumers.
South Korea
Since 2019, demand for Australian goatmeat in South Korea has grown, making it a major market for Australia. In the last four years, South Korea recorded record-high import volume and value, accounting for 17% of Australia's total export value in 2024. This means it is the second most valuable market after the US. Increasing consumer interest in the positive health associations of goatmeat has been a significant demand driver.
China – Mainland
China significantly increased imports in 2023 and maintained strong demand through 2024, ranking as the third-largest market by volume. Growth has been supported by zero tariffs, competitive pricing and positive importer experiences.
Taiwan
Taiwan has been a long-standing trade partner. Australia supplies a significant portion of Taiwan's goatmeat imports, accounting for two-thirds of the domestic consumption. Taiwan primarily imports skin-on carcases, which are typically consumed in winter due to the product's association with body strengthening and warming properties.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean has a large goat flock and a long tradition of enjoying goatmeat. Australia has been a reliable supplier to Trinidad and Tobago for over 30 years. More affordable Australian goatmeat prices have boosted demand from this market since 2022.
Find out more details in the new MLA Global Goat Snapshot.
Attribute content to: Emiliano Diaz, MLA Market Insight Analyst
