APL response to current market disruption 

Market disruption caused by COVID-19 is front of mind for producers and our supply chain partners, especially the pressure being experienced by businesses exposed to the shut-down of the foodservice industry.

APL has been closely monitoring supply and demand dynamics, working with all stakeholders to minimise the negative impact COVID-19 might have on our markets.

Our work with exporters, government and importing countries has enabled significant volumes of Australian pork to be flown to markets including Singapore and Hong Kong. With exports accounting for 10 per cent of our production, keeping our overseas supply chains open is crucial in helping to offset local surpluses.

Somewhat inevitably domestic wholesale inventories have mounted in recent weeks and, with popular foodservice cuts now proving difficult to shift, overall carcase values have fallen. This is impacting profitability, undermining producer confidence and creating uncertainty for everyone in the pork industry.

However, producers can be confident that APL is being agile in responding to these challenges, with consumer marketing efforts prioritising the promotion of restaurant favourites like pork ribs and bellies as accessible options for homemade meals.

APL will continue to work with all supply chain stakeholders to find innovative ways to market and promote Australian pork during this volatile period, including the #Hospo4Hospo initiative and #EatAloneTogether campaign.

Any producer in need of assistance of information related to COVID-19 can contact APL directly or visit www.agriculture.gov.au/coronavirus/industry