Goatmeat strategy plan on track to achieve growth targets

Australia is becoming one of the world's biggest goatmeat exporters.

NEW FOOD: The goatmeat industry is set to achieve key targets. Picture: Keagan Elder

THE goatmeat industry is set to achieve key targets as it looks for ways to stabilise its supply base and capture new market opportunities.

A five-year research and development plan was developed by the Goat Industry Council of Australia, with support from Meat & Livestock Australia, with findings contained in a mid-term review of the Goatmeat and Livestock Industry Strategic Plan 2020.

As one of the world's biggest goatmeat exporters, Australia sent 28,426 tonnes of produce overseas last year, at a value of $257million.

The plan details clear targets for the industry to improve on-farm practices and grow production and exports.

GICA president John Falkenhagen said a number of indicators had been achieved already, or were at least on track to be delivered by 2020.

"Within the current plan, the vision is to secure the industry's future as an innovative, profitable and resilient world leader in goat production,” he said.

"We are now halfway through the plan's timeframe and the mid-term review has been completed by GICA and MLA, concluding the industry is overwhelmingly making good progress.”

A feasibility study was completed, looking into opportunities to encourage goatmeat consumption in Australia.

"It identified that value-adding could create more demand and potentially generate $13 million for the industry annually,” Mr Falkenhagen said.

Originally published as Goatmeat strategy plan on track to achieve growth targets