Browse Data and Analysis

On April 4, 2024, the Government of Bangladesh issued a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) allowing the bulk import of animal feed ingredients without labels; fixing an issue that was causing tariffs to be applied to shipments of feed ingredients when bulk containers did not have labels in them.

Australia’s sugar production is forecast to increase to 4.2 million metric tons (MMT) in marketing year (MY) 2024/25 from an estimated 4.1 MMT in MY 2023/24. This increase is due to an expected rise in sugar cane crush to 30.5 MMT in MY 2024/25, from an estimate of 29.8 MMT in the previous year.

Bangladesh continues to increase rice production, for marketing year (MY) 2024/25, Post forecasts rice production at 37.7 million metric tons (MT). With high international prices and increased production, Post forecasts limited opportunities for Bangladesh to import rice in MY 2024/25.

Australian oilseed production, dominated by canola, is expected to be strong for the fourth successive season during the marketing year (MY) 2024/25. If realized, canola production of 6.5 million metric tons (MMT) would be 14 percent above the previous year’s estimate and the third largest on record.

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) have updated the laws on allergen labeling for foods sold throughout Australia and New Zealand. The new allergen labeling laws are called PEAL – Plain English Allergen Labelling.

Post forecasts an increase in marketing year (MY) 2024/25 cotton imports on higher global demand for ready-made garments. Despite Bangladesh’s economic challenges, Post maintains MY 2023/24 cotton imports at 7.5 million bales, on lower yarn and fabric imports.

Cotton production in Australia is set for a fourth successive year of high production in marketing year (MY) 2024/25, forecast at 5.5 million bales, which would be the third largest crop. The prospect of average rainfalls over the winter/spring period if realized would establish improved irrigation water availability for growers.

Australian beef supply is forecast to climb after the herd rebuild period ends. The marked slowdown in the growth of the national herd is expected to drive a higher female slaughter rate, increase the overall supply of cattle for slaughter, and boost live cattle and beef exports in 2024.

Despite economic challenges and high feed prices, demand for feed is expected to grow in Bangladesh as large commercial poultry farms expand their operations and some major feed producers have initiated contract poultry farming.

Australia’s food, beverage, and grocery sectors, contribute to a third of all business activity in the manufacturing landscape.

El Niño conditions for Australia remain present, but this has been pushed aside in late spring and early summer after the eastern states received above-average rainfalls. This situation has prompted a rise in the sorghum production forecast for MY 2023/24 to 1.8 million metric tons (MMT), and the rice production forecast remains strong at 522,000 metric tons (MT) with the support of ample irrigation water.

Australia is a crucial market for U.S. fresh fruits because of the year-round demand for high-quality products. The U.S. has benefitted from a well-established reputation for producing quality and safe fruits.