Australian beef outsells domestic product in Canadian supermarkets due to lower prices

Australian beef appears on Canadian shelves at prices well below those of domestic beef, prompting concern among some producers but relief among price-sensitive consumers. Tyler Fulton, president of the Canadian Cattle Association, attributes the gap to Australia's grass-fed model with limited grain finishing, resulting in leaner cuts that are less prized in Canada. He also notes that retailers may be using the imports as a loss-leader to attract shoppers.

Since the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership took effect in 2018, Australian beef has enjoyed greater market access, mirroring benefits Canada receives in markets like Japan and Vietnam. Shoppers in Regina reported switching to the cheaper option, while others remain loyal to local producers despite higher costs. Loblaws, a major retailer, linked the price difference to tighter North American supply and rising Australian production, affirming its commitment to Canadian producers. Fulton remains optimistic about domestic herd growth and sees the imported beef as a short-term fill for a supply void.