Australia to end live sheep exports in May 2028

The decision to phase out live sheep exports by sea from Australia came into effect last week.

The Australian Parliament passed legislation to phase out live sheep exports by sea from 1 May 2028. The Department of Agriculture will continue to regulate live sheep exports by sea during the transition period to ensure compliance with all requirements, including animal welfare.

In 2024, sheep exports decreased by 33%, reaching 433,078 head. Jordan became the top destination for Australian live sheep exports for the first time, accounting for 30% of total shipments. This change was primarily due to a 58% drop in exports to Kuwait due to vessel shortages.

The government has implemented a transition assistance package of approximately $90 million and several grant programs, one of which is aimed at increasing demand for Australian sheep products and supporting the diversification of agri-food exports to the Middle East and North Africa region.

With the departure of the world’s leading live sheep exporter (New Zealand ceased live sheep exports in 2015), opportunities are opening up for other exporters.

Tags: Australia, export, New Zealand, Kuwait, restrictions, Jordan