RURAL Bank\u2019s Ag Answers division takes out the crystal ball for the New Year and looks back on 2018 that will be remembered for below-average rainfall, high feed costs, record lamb and mutton prices and the smallest grain crop on the east coast in nearly a decade.<\/p>\n
As we head into 2019, Rural Bank\u2019s Ag Answers insights team has turned its attention to the year ahead for Australian farmers.<\/p>\n
In the Australian Agriculture Outlook 2019, Ag Answers has analysed the performance of six industries, cattle, horticulture, cropping, dairy, sheep and wool, plus the broader economy to provide a forecast of what we can expect in 2019.<\/p>\n
\u201cDrought and drier conditions have affected large parts of the eastern seaboard,\u201d said Simon Dundon, General Manager Sales and Distribution for Rural Bank.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, with improved seasonal conditions and continued strong export demand, farmers can expect more stability across agricultural markets.\u201d<\/p>\n
The report identifies several possible agribusiness trends for this year that include:<\/p>\n
1. Cattle prices strengthen due to reduced supply and strong export demand<\/p>\n
2. Farmgate milk prices continue an upwards trajectory<\/p>\n
3. Horticultural export value to rise<\/p>\n
4. Lamb and mutton set new annual average records<\/p>\n
5. Chinese sportswear market drives wool exports<\/p>\n
6. The wider economy will see growth<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
RURAL Bank\u2019s Ag Answers division takes out the crystal ball for the New Year and looks back on 2018 that will be remembered for below-average rainfall, high feed costs, record lamb and mutton prices and the smallest grain crop on the east coast in nearly a decade. As we head into 2019, Rural Bank\u2019s Ag […]<\/p>\n