Australia has knocked New Zealand off its number one perch as the world’s top exporter of lamb and mutton to a key market.
Austrade figures show Australia’s frozen and chilled lamb and mutton exports to India rose from $1.2 million in 2023 to over $2.3 million in 2024, a jump of 85 percent year-on-year and overtaking New Zealand, which exported $1.4 million’s worth of product.
In a statement, Austrade said the export boost followed a campaign to promote Australia’s high-quality meat and trusted supply chains in India.
“The campaign highlighted the elimination of all tariffs on lamb and sheepmeat under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA,” it stated.
“The campaign also marks Australia’s move away from live sheep exports toward premium processed meat, with India identified as a priority market.”
Austrade said the growth was helped by an expanding, consistent and uninterrupted supply chain reaching across India.
“This meant meat could be reliably delivered to Indian customers while competitors like New Zealand struggled with disruptions.
“Australian exporters supply 14 different cuts of lamb and mutton to meet the diverse needs of Indian chefs and consumers. This is in sharp contrast to just 2 to 3 from other nations.”
It stated significant investments in supply chain development had also ensured freshness and reliability.
“India’s premium hospitality sector – hotels, restaurants and cafes – has always been the biggest user of imported lamb and mutton. New Zealand had long held that space.
“But Australia changed the game. With a focus on quality, clear messaging and better trade terms, Australia is now the preferred choice.”
