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OUR OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
The global competitive position of Australian red meat and livestock has been eroded over recent years by the dramatic rise in the A$ against the US$ and other key currencies (except the EU euro) and by increased costs associated with the long-running drought (for example grain costs have lowered grainfed beef output). Also, competition in beef markets of North Asia is intensifying as the US regains import access.
In contrast, 2007–08 saw a sharp easing in competition from Brazilian beef, opening up opportunities for frozen manufacturing grade beef and cheaper cuts into Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Competition faced in lamb markets continues to ease, due to falls in flocks in North America, Europe and New Zealand. However, China remains a major potential competitor. The past year also saw an improvement in lamb’s competitive position against pork and poultry, due to the sharp jump in grain costs.
Producers operate complex enterprises in an environment characterised by highly variable seasons and markets. Our research and development focuses on delivering new tools and technologies that support producers to become more productive and efficient in a volatile business environment
