Australia has firmly established itself as the world’s top goat meat exporter, according to Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) newly released 2025 Global Goat Snapshot. In 2024, Australian goatmeat production surged by 47% year-on-year to a record 54,017 tons (carcase weight), marking the highest output ever recorded.
Export volumes also reached an all-time high, climbing 53% to 51,489 tons (shipped weight), while export value soared 50% to $354 million, 40% above the previous record set in 2022. Australia now commands 55% of global goat meat exports by volume, significantly ahead of Kenya (22%) and Ethiopia (13%).
The growth is largely attributed to favorable seasonal conditions across major production zones, resulting in a rapid increase in flock size and a 41% rise in total goat slaughter to 3.4 million head in 2024. Expanded processing capabilities also played a key role in supporting export volumes.
Michael Crowley, MLA’s Managing Director, noted that the sector has experienced extraordinary growth since 2020. “Australia has tripled goat meat production since 2020 and set a new global benchmark,” he said. “Our goat meat is known for its quality and sustainability, which continues to attract international buyers.”
He added that the rise in dedicated processing plants has enhanced the consistency and availability of Australian goat meat, encouraging importers to expand their orders.
Key international markets have been driving the demand:
United States: Australia’s largest market, importing over 27,500 tons in 2024, a 90% increase. Ethnically diverse urban centers on both coasts continue to fuel this growth.
South Korea: Imports grew 44% to a record 8,639 tons, driven by demand during the traditional Sambok summer period, when goat meat is appreciated for its health benefits.
China: Despite a slight drop from 2023 levels, China remains the third-largest buyer with more than 5,100 tons. Evolving trade conditions are expected to support future growth.
Caribbean: Trinidad and Tobago emerged as the fifth-largest market, importing over 2,000 tons.
Domestically, goat meat remains a niche product, with only 5% of total production consumed within Australia in 2024. However, the average number of goat meat servings has been on a gradual rise, spurred by awareness campaigns.
Among these initiatives is the Melbourne Goat Trail, now in its second edition following the success of the Sydney campaign. The MLA-led effort promotes goat meat’s culinary diversity and flavor across multiple cuisines, supported by celebrity chef Sarah Tiong.
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