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Government of South Australia - Department of State Development

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    16th Sep 2024
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    Trade and Investment

    Beef exports move up in the US market

    Americans are now dishing up more South Australian beef on their plates with recent trade data showing demand for the state’s beef has grown to $195.7 million, up more than 285 per cent.

    Demand for South Australia’s bovine meat exports to the United States have surpassed all other Australian states in terms of growth, with an increase of 285 per cent in the year ending July 2024, when compared to NSW – 103.5 per cent, WA – 64.9 per cent, VIC – 73.6 per cent, and QLD – 51.4 per cent.

    South Australian beef exports to all markets were valued at $407.8 million (up 107.5 per cent) on the year to July 2024.

    The United States is South Australia’s second largest merchandise export market, valued at $2.06 billion to June 2024.

    South Australia’s Thomas Foods International, which employs nearly 2,000 skilled workers in South Australia, joined forces with Food Comm in 2009 to create TFI USA, one of the first businesses in-market to supply high-quality chilled grass-fed beef to a national retailer. The business now distributes more than 100 million pounds of quality meat products a year.

    “The USA remains a critical market for Thomas Foods International, and our investment in that region reflects our long-term commitment to providing high-quality Australian beef and lamb to American consumers,” said Darren Thomas, Managing Director of Thomas Foods International.

    “Our ownership and operation of a large importing and further processing facility in Philadelphia complement our operations in South Australia, creating a seamless supply chain that meets the growing demand for premium Australian beef and lamb. This synergy not only strengthens our presence but also reinforces our commitment to excellence in beef and lamb exports from South Australia.


    “Our historic and ongoing investment in our vertically integrated business, including the new beef processing plant at Murray Bridge and other exciting developments in-market, enhances our ability to meet the needs of our US customers while also supporting the South Australian economy.

    “Thomas Foods International is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards across all our markets. While our success in the USA is significant, it is just one piece of our global strategy. We continue to focus on maintaining and expanding our export accreditations, particularly to key markets like China, ensuring that our products are recognised for their quality and value around the world. The economic impact of these exports is profound, driving growth and creating opportunities both directly and indirectly across South Australia for South Australians.”

    The South Australian Government has trade and investment offices based in Houston, New York and Washington DC that cover the United States, Canada and South America.

    Learn about South Australia's US-based trade and investment offices

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