USMEF South American Expo (Click to download PDF form) | New Zealand | Lamb ...

USMEF South American Expo (Click to download PDF form)

Lamb Production For Export Forecast 4 Percent Higher 

New Zealand's export lamb production for the coming 2002/03 season is expected to increase by 4% to 24.8 million head, following a record lambing season, according to New Zealand's Meat and Wool Innovation Economic Service.

Favorable weather conditions throughout much of New Zealand during 2002 resulted in the spring lambing percentage reaching 124%, surpassing the previous record of 119% set in 2001. Carcass weights in 2001/02 reached a record level of 16.9 kg (37.18 pounds)/head, but are predicted to decline to 16.7 kg (36.74)/head in the coming year, as seasonal conditions are expected to be poorer.