Canadian beef gets access to Australian market once again

Canadian beef and beef products regain access to Australia, a key Indo-Pacific market for the first time since 2003.

In 2003, Australia imposed import restrictions on Canadian beef, following the discovery of Canada’s first domestic case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). In 2021, Canada was officially recognized by the World Organisation of Animal Health as having negligible risk status for BSE, underlining the integrity of our animal health and food inspection systems.

“Canada is known around the world for producing top-quality beef — and that’s a testament to the hard work of our producers. Strengthening our trade ties with Australia—one of our key partners in the Indo-Pacific—means more opportunities for Canadian farmers and processors to grow their businesses, create good jobs, and build up our economy. The Government of Canada is absolutely committed to supporting the industry as we open new doors, drive growth, and showcase the best of Canada to the world,” said Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

In 2024, Canada remained a major global beef exporter, ranking eighth in the world by volume. Canada’s global exports of agriculture and agri-food (not including fish and seafood) in 2024 overall was $92.2 billion in 2024, compared to $91.6 billion in 2023.