Australia sets new records in global goat meat trade

Exports climbed 53 per cent to a record 51,489 tonnes shipped weight in 2024, with export value rising 50 per cent to $354 million.

This is 40 per cent higher than the previous high set in 2022.

Australia accounts for 55 per cent of global goat meat exports by volume, far ahead of competitors such as Kenya and Ethiopia, which represent 22 per cent and 13 per cent respectively of the global export market.

Australia’s growth has been driven by favourable seasonal conditions in key production areas leading to a rapid increase in flock size, and the expansion of processing capacity, with total goat slaughter in Australia rising 41 per cent to 3.4 million head in 2024.

According to MLA managing director Michael Crowley, Australia’s goat meat production has boomed recently while demand has soared from overseas markets.

“Australia has tripled goat meat production since 2020 and also set a new benchmark for global supply,” Mr Crowley said.

“Our goat meat is highly regarded for its quality and sustainability credentials which are resonating strongly with buyers and consumers worldwide.

“The increased supply, together with the expansion of goat-specific processing plants, has improved the availability and consistency of Australian goat meat, boosting buyers’ confidence to grow imports of Australian goat meat.”

Key markets include:

In comparison to other proteins, goat meat is less prevalent in Australian meals, with around 5 per cent of all goat meat produced remaining in Australia last year.

However, there has been a long, steady upward trend in the average number of goat meat serves over the years.

Increasing awareness of goat meat is a goal of MLA’s domestic consumer campaigns, including in the successful Melbourne Goat Trail.

Now in its second iteration after the successful Sydney Goat Trail, the campaign highlights goat meat’s versatility and flavour across various cuisines, supported by celebrity chef Sarah Tiong.