Canadian beef exports to Asia keep growing

Worldwide exports of Canadian beef in 2013 were up three percent in volume, and 10 percent in value, at 279,300 tons worth $1.3 billion. Preliminary trade numbers indicate that positive trend continuing in 2014. To help foster expanded trade opportunities, Canada Beef is actively participating in important trade missions and food shows throughout Asia in April 2014.

The week of April 14, Canada Beef President Rob Meijer is participating in a Canadian trade delegation to South Korea and Japan, led by Agriculture and Agrifood Canada Minister Gerry Ritz. The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and representatives from other commodity organizations and businesses are also participating.

The trade mission is an opportunity for Canada Beef to support the Canadian Government’s efforts to broaden market access with these countries by preparing the groundwork for implementation of the recently signed Free Trade Agreement with South Korea and continued efforts to include Japan in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement.

"Our role here is to dissect each of these markets based on market intelligence, and lock in with key partners for long term value," said Meijer. "We need to ensure we can provide consistent supply and strengthen loyalty to the Canadian Beef Brand."

Canada Beef’s Asian markets saw steady growth in 2013. Hong Kong and Macau experienced a 31 percent volume increase and 95 percent increase in value. Hong Kong is now Canada’s second largest beef market, representing 10 percent of total exports.

Exports to Japan increased 19 percent in volume, representing 5.2 percent of Canada’s total beef exports. Volumes have been steadily growing and benefited from a broader market access agreement in 2013 allowing for beef from cattle under-30-months of age.

Exports to mainland China took off in 2013, reaching 6,000 tons valued at $25 million, up from 1,500 tons valued at $5.4 million in 2012. Growth in Chinese beef consumption is expected to be supplied by imports over the next three to five years.

In the week preceding the trade mission to South Korea and Japan, Canada Beef participated in the Food and Hotel Asia (FHA) 2014 Show in Singapore. FHA 2014 has grown to become Southeast Asia’s pinnacle food trade event. At the show Canada Beef worked with Canadian Trade Commissioners to identify key market opportunities and high-value partners.

Canada Beef is the cattle producer-funded and run organization responsible for domestic and international beef and veal market development. It has offices in Canada, Mexico, Japan, Hong Kong, China and Taiwan. Canada Beef works to foster loyalty to the Canadian beef brand and build strong relationships with trade customers and partners. These efforts increase demand for Canadian beef and the value producers receive for their cattle.