The fall in imports for the month can be largely attributed to an increase in local beef production resulting from higher cow and bull slaughter, and reduced offers from overseas markets. For the eight months to August, US beef and veal imports were down 15% on the same period last year, at 977,770 tonnes.

US imports of Australian beef and veal during August accounted for 33% of total imports, at 37,133 tonnes – 19% below year ago levels. Similarly, imports of Australian beef during the first eight months of 2006 were also down, falling 4% on year ago levels.

Source: mla.com.au