Record year for Australian goatmeat highlighted in 2025 global snapshot

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has released the Goatmeat Global Snapshot 2025, highlighting record production, exports and strong global demand for Australian goatmeat over the past year.

The report shows Australia further strengthening its position as the world’s leading goatmeat exporter, accounting for around 61% of global export volume, despite producing less than 1% of global supply.

In 2025, Australian goatmeat exports reached a record 61,766 tonnes shipped weight (swt), up 20% on 2024, while export value surged to $464 million, 28% higher year-on-year.

Production also climbed to new highs, with Australian goatmeat output rising 18% to 63,672 tonnes carcase weight, supported by favourable seasonal conditions, increased supply and expanded processing capacity.

MLA Senior Market Information Analyst Emiliano Diaz said the 2025 snapshot highlights a standout year for the industry and reinforces Australia’s global leadership.

“The 2025 snapshot underscores how rapidly Australia’s goatmeat industry is evolving, with record production and exports meeting strong global demand,” Mr Diaz said.

“While goatmeat remains a niche protein globally, demand is expanding as consumers seek nutritious, high-quality and more diverse protein options, and Australia is well placed to lead that growth.”

The United States remained Australia’s largest market in 2025, accounting for 48% of exports, with shipments reaching a record 29,649 tonnes. Korea continued its strong growth trajectory, with exports increasing 23% year-on-year and rising more than eightfold since 2020.

Other markets contributed to increasing diversification, with Canada recording an 89% increase in imports to become Australia’s fourth largest export destination, while Mainland China maintained its position as the third largest market for goatmeat.

Globally, goatmeat consumption remains closely linked to cultural cuisines and traditions across South Asian, Middle Eastern, Caribbean and African communities.

However, the report highlights growing interest beyond these segments, supported by demand for lean, high protein meats and increased curiosity for alternative proteins.

Mr Diaz said continued growth will be driven by improving accessibility and consumer familiarity.

“Greater supply and improved consistency are helping goatmeat move beyond foodservice into retail channels across key markets,” Mr Diaz said.

“Building awareness and confidence in how to prepare goatmeat is critical to unlocking further demand, and MLA is actively supporting this through its annual Goat Trail marketing campaign across metropolitan markets.”

The report also notes that increasing production has improved availability in the domestic market, creating new opportunities to grow consumption within Australia alongside export demand.

With strong fundamentals in place and demand continuing to broaden globally, Australia’s goatmeat industry is well positioned to build on its record 2025 performance.

To view the full Goatmeat Global Snapshot 2025 visit: Goatmeat Global Snapshot 2025