Record New Zealand Lamb Exports in 2003/04

August 6, 2004 -- New Zealand lamb exports increased just over 1 percent on the previous financial year to reach a record 302,442 tonnes sw in 2003/04. The result came despite the mixed fortunes that were experienced in New Zealand?s key export markets.

Shipments to the U.S. jumped 22 percent on 2002/03 levels to reach a record 25,858 tonnes sw, while exports to Japan rose 44 percent to reach 10,916 tonnes sw ? the highest fiscal year total since 1998/99.

New Zealand?s key export markets for lamb are also large outlets for Australian lamb. Despite New Zealand?s expanding export volumes to these markets, Australian lamb has also performed well over 2003/04, emphasizing the strength of lamb demand in these export markets. Over 2003/04, Australian lamb exports to the European Union, the United States and Japan rose by 23 percent, 18 percent and 41 percent respectively on year-ago levels.

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