AGRICULTURE and Food Minister Terry Redman met Malaysia’s Minister for Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, Dato Mustapa Mohamed, in Perth last week to discuss expanding the livestock trade. Western Australia and Malaysia have previously worked together to develop a plan for the Malaysian goat industry, and the meeting provided an opportunity to explore and progress a similar plan for the cattle industry. Mr Redman said WA had an international reputation as a leading supplier of goats and cattle, farm services and equipment, cold chain infrastructure, and technology of animal breeding and husbandry. “In 2007-08 WA agri-food exports to Malaysia were valued at $242.4 million, making it our sixth largest agri-food export market,” Mr Redman said. “Live animal exports were $7.8 million, including $471,000 of goats. “Malaysia is keen to take advantage of Australia’s expertise.” To assist with cattle development opportunities, the delegation visited Harvey Beef to look at abattoir facilities and technology.
