Australia’s red meat is getting awarded on international stage

Australian beef was singled out as the only sustainable protein at a major international trade show, giving it an edge amid tariff wars.

Australia’s sustainability credentials could give it an edge in global markets.

And with the uncertainty of the global trade environment, following the tariff war launched by US President Donald Trump, Australian beef may need any advantage it can get.

Meat and Livestock Australia general manager Andrew Cox told The Weekly Times “trade tensions between US and China, if unresolved, would severely limit the volumes of US beef exported to China, but likely add competitive pressure for Australian beef in other markets, particularly elsewhere in North East Asia”.

“Meanwhile, the uncertainty of trade settings is weighing on the global economy, with the supply chain already facing difficulties with increased costs and low consumer confidence,” he said.

However, Mr Cox said Australia could benefit from the tariffs, in a reputational sense.

“Australia is in a strong position as a trusted partner across many global markets and if anything that reputation has been enhanced in the last few weeks,” he said.

Mr Cox said Australia had communicated industry systems in international markets over many years. This put it in a good position on customer and policy maker awareness of traceability, animal welfare, eating quality and sustainability programs.

Australian beef’s sustainability credentials were getting noticed, with the product recognised as the only sustainable protein available at major international trade show, World Expo 2025, held in Osaka, Japan, which runs from April to October and attracts 28 million visitors.

Japan is the second largest beef export market for Australia, importing 247,605 tonnes of beef, valued at $2.07 billion in 2024.

MLA regional manager Japan and Korea Travis Brown said the sustainability certification made Australian red meat stand out as the only protein globally to receive such recognition.

“After working with Expo officials, Australian beef has met all the criteria to be recognised as a sustainable supplier. It stands out as the only protein globally to receive this certification,” Mr Brown said.

“Having the industry certified allows all of us to promote and share this point in our discussions, negotiations and promotions where sustainability is an ever-increasing factor in buying and purchasing decisions.”

Australia’s Carbon Neutral 2030 program was also part of the “compelling story about Australian red meat that drives preference in global markets”, Mr Cox said.

Australia also developed the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework in 2017 to create a pathway of best practice.