WA'S beef exports have rebounded over the past three years to reach record levels, according to the latest industry snapshot from the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA).
The department's WA Beef Commentary has reported between 2012 and 2015, the value of WA beef exports grew 170 per cent, from A$68 million in 2012 to A$184m in 2015.
Department project manager Manus Stockdale said the resurgence, from a low in 2012, had been underpinned by strengthening demand from Asian markets and the United States, along with the easing of the Australian dollar.
"In 2015, the USA and Korea were the largest markets by value for WA beef, each accounting for 16pc of the value of WA beef exports, followed by Japan, Indonesia and China," Mr Stockdale said.
Live cattle exports from WA rose 64pc in value from $154m in 2012 to $253m in 2015 - the highest value reached in the last decade.
The domestic market remains an important market for WA beef, accounting for approximately 60pc of WA beef production.
Department research officer Kate Pritchett said the WA beef cattle herd stood at an estimated 2.24 million head in 2014-15.
"Between 2012 and 2015 there was an increase of 10pc for WA cattle slaughter and beef production," she said.
"During 2016, WA cattle market indicators had been very strong compared to previous years."
WA Beef Commentary is a biannual publication produced by the department, detailing market insights and the status of the beef industry, including production and export statistics.
The report is available from the department website agric.wa.gov.au
The department's Northern Beef Futures program, made possible by Royalties for Regions investment, is supporting the creation of new supply chains by broadening products, production systems and markets.
