Sheep Producers Australia (SPA) is disappointed with the announcement of tariffs on red meat exports to the US this morning.

SPA Chief Executive Bonnie Skinner said tariffs undermine the Australia- United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) and fail to acknowledge the vital role that Australian product plays in underpinning the growing appetite for lamb in the US.

“Australian lamb producers are proud to make a contribution to ensuring consistent supply to the US,” she said.

“Lamb is synonymous with Australia - and for good reason. Our producers are the backbone of a supply chain which delivers high quality sheepmeat products throughout the world."

“SPA has a long history of collaboration with the American sheep industry, and the sector shares the ambition to get as much lamb on as many dinner plates as possible."

“According to Steiner analysis, lamb imports rose 28% in 2024 while domestic production also grew by 3%, showing the domestic market can grow alongside imports."

“In addition, tariffs don’t reflect the 20-year partnership under the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA).”

“SPA is disappointed with the 10 per cent tariff and will continue to work with the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC) and service providers including Meat & Livestock Australia and government to support the industry to deal with changes to the trading arrangement with the US.”

In 2024, Australia exported 104,210 tonnes of sheepmeat worth $1.35 billion to the US.