FMD in Europe puts strain on Australian herds
Australian farmers are running out of cows because demand has risen sharply due to diseases in European livestock.
Queensland state Primary Industries Minister Henry Palaszczuk, says that despite good seasonal conditions the demand for live cattle for overseas markets is likely to outstrip production.
He says the increased demand is being driven by the foot-and-mouth outbreak and BSE.
He commented: "We are sympathetic to the plight of producers in Europe and the United Kingdom but this has created opportunities for our beef producers."
Australia is seeking to boost live cattle sales to Asian markets including Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.
Mr Palaszczuk, who is to go on trade mission to Asia soon, said: "These trips are part of the Government's Global Beef Alliances push, which is paving the way for expansion in live cattle and... Beef exports."
Queensland is Australia's biggest beef state with cattle and beef exports worth Aus$126m.
