The number of pigs in Tasmania decreased by about one-fifth, compared with the previous year, to stand at 18,000 at 30 June 2000.
Continuing low pig prices as a result of competition from increased imports after import restrictions were relaxed in 1998 saw producers leave the industry and a consequent reduction in herd numbers. However, disease problems among some major Asian producers have seen export opportunities open for Australian pig meat with the industry expected to increase supply to meet this demand.
The preliminary Tasmanian estimate for 2000-01 shows an increase in pig numbers to 22,000.
PIGS, Tasmania
|
| At 31 March | '000 |
|
| 1996 | 26 |
| 1997 | 24 |
| 1998 | 24 |
| 1999 | 22 |
| 2000(a) | 18 |
(a) At 30 June.
Source: Agriculture, Australia (Cat. no. 7113.0). |
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