Although Exports On, Cattle Flow Limited
AUSTRALIA - Cattle producers should act now to consider alternative markets for cattle that were destined for live trade to Indonesia, Cattle Council of Australia has said today.
2 August 2011
1 minute read
A recent ABARE survey into the effects of the suspension of the trade in slaughter cattle to Indonesia showed that 365,000 cattle remain unsold. Furthermore, producers were still expecting to send in the order of 170,000 head to Indonesia this year.
“The survey showed that a majority of cattle produces in the north are holding back large numbers of cattle in the hope that they can be shipped to Indonesia,” Greg Brown, President, Cattle Council of Australia said.
“Although the live export tap has been turned back on, unfortunately it seems it will be a long and slow road before the cattle start to flow in any significant number.
“The new strict supply chain assurance requirements will limit exports for the short to medium term.
"Affected beef producers need to think seriously about alternative markets and try and make the hard decisions based on what they believe is best for their business,” Mr Brown said.
Cattle Council is encouraging producers to phone the Australian Government Assistance Line on 1800 808 869 between 8am and 8pm local time Monday to Friday.
“Producers may be able to access the Live Export Business Assistance Package which can be used to cover business expenses such as transport costs. This type of assistance may make alternate markets more attractive,” Mr Brown said.
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