Browse Data and Analysis

Australia’s table grape production is expected to increase to 210,000 MT in marketing year (MY) 2022/23, from an estimated 180,000 metric tons (MT) in MY 2021/22. This is with the expectation of slightly improved harvest labor availability and better seasonal conditions at harvest. Despite expanded vine plantings in recent years now coming into fruiting, production has been hindered by challenges.

The Australian consumer foodservice industry is valued at A$54 (US$41) billion. Australia’s commercial foodservice sector is a competitive market and with an ageing population, the institutional foodservice sector (aged care, hospitals, etc.) continues to grow. Most industry operators in the hotel and resort sector derive a significant portion of revenue from the sale of meals and beverages prepared at onsite restaurants.

FAS/Canberra’s sugar cane production estimate for Australia is revised up for marketing year (MY) 2022/23 to 33 million metric tons (MMT), with the major production areas receiving well above-average rains during harvest which has promoted greater sugar cane growth.

Australian beef supply is forecast to make a substantial step towards recovery in 2023 after falling to the lowest level in decades in 2021 and generating only a marginal improvement in 2022. The Australian cattle industry is expected to continue its strong herd rebuild in 2023 but with female slaughter rates rising.

The Australian dairy and dairy products industry is still recovering from drought and the volume of milk production is expected to be around 9.6 million metric tons in 2015.

Australian wheat production for 2014-15 is expected to fall to 24 million tons due to lower than expected rainfall and declining yields.

The Australian federal government is very supportive of biotechnology and has committed considerable long-term funding to research and development.

Drought in major cattle regions in Australia has significantly increased slaughter and production as producers bring forward turnoff, depressing domestic prices but boosting exports.

Australian sugar production is projected to grow to 4.6 million tonnes in 2014-15 with sugar cane acreage up slightly.