The NAB Rural Commodities Wrap details what the year ahead might look like for cattle prices after the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) cracked the $8/kg mark for the first time about a month ago, and has consistently remained above that level since.
NAB Agribusiness economist Phin Ziebell said with cattle numbers so low post-drought, prices have responded very sharply.
“While current prices are great news for people who managed to hold cattle during the drought, those forced to largely destock in the 2018-19 period are now buying into a red-hot market,” Mr Ziebell said.
“Processors also face major challenges finding quality stock at profitable prices.
“Looking ahead, while it is entirely possible that the EYCI will reach $10/kg in early 2021, it is not our central forecast and it is likely to be unsustainable.
“Already expensive compared to our competitors, a drier second half of 2021 will likely result in downward trend in Australian cattle prices into the second half of 2021 and into 2022.”
NAB business bank executive for Central Queensland, Darren Kuhl, said extremely high prices had been driven by lack of supply following massive destocking in 2018-19.
“The high prices also reflect the historically low breeder numbers, resulting from the female portion of total kill rates outweighing the male portion in the last few years,” Mr Kuhl said.
“The promise of La Nina has also impacted supply and we’re seeing a lot more producers who may have originally reduced stock, hold on as long as they possibly can in anticipation of the La Nina event.
“There have been a lot of producers who would have been buying cattle who have chosen to hold off due to high prices.”
Overall, the NAB Rural Commodities Index rose 4.7 per cent in October, the best monthly result since March, reflecting Australian agriculture being in the strongest seasonal shape since 2016, but with generally better prices.
“Global wheat prices have rallied, presenting upside for Australian producers, yet the unwinding of basis means domestic wheat is cheaper than year-ago levels,” Mr Ziebell said.
“Lamb prices have moved out of sync with usual seasonal patterns this year and the National Trade Lamb Indicator (NTLI) is now above year-ago levels, pointing to excellent returns for sheep producers.
“The wool market has recovered somewhat, although prices remain well below 2018 peaks with the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) sitting at $11.59/kg last week.”
The NAB feed grain price index has continued to trend downwards and is now down around 15 per cent year-on-year.
“On track for a big season, we may see barley displace other grains in the feed mix if it continues to trade at such a steep discount, as it remains subdued on account of Chinese tariffs,” Mr Ziebell said.
“Australia’s trade relationship with China is under increasing strain, with some agricultural sectors now hit by tariffs or non-tariff barriers.”
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