ALEC CEO Mark Harvey-Sutton: morocco wants WA’s sheep.

LIVE sheep — up to 100,000 a year — are on the urgent shopping list of a Moroccan delegation in Western Australia this week.

A delegation of 15 visitors from Morocco is in Perth this week hosted by the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council.

Exporters have been told that Morocco can take up 100,000 sheep per year, with potential for growth.

Sheep are Morocco’s focus at present; however, the protocol allows cattle and goats (by air) to be exported also.

The exporters believe shipping before the start of the northern summer moratorium in June is possible and understands the moratorium may not apply to shipments to Morocco, but industry would make an evidence based assessment based on risk to determine appropriate shipping timeframes.

ALEC said shipping varies due to global demand, but there are plenty of vessels that can service the Moroccan market.

An ALEC statement said the Moroccans want Australian live sheep ‘as quickly as possible’.

The Moroccan delegation comprises a Head of Mission, Moroccan government officials and importers. They are touring facilities and assessing requirements ahead of beginning importing Australian livestock, ALEC said.

ALEC chief executive officer Mark Harvey-Sutton said the Moroccan interest was a great sign for farmers and proved that the Albanese Government’s ban on live sheep exports is not only risking Australian jobs but food security overseas.

“What this shows is that there are still thriving markets that want and need Australian livestock.

“Morocco has a need to replenish its herds following a drought and Australia, with our high quality, disease-free status and reliable supply is well placed to assist,” Mr Harvey-Sutton said.

Head of the Moroccan delegation, Elachchabi Tawfik, said Morocco had an urgent need for sheep, goats and cattle following a continuing drought and supply problems in closer markets.

“Morocco is seeking to fill the need for red meat and must replenish its livestock.

“The Australian market presents considerable advantages in terms of health conditions and animal welfare, volume and logistics, thus reducing the distance between the two countries,” he said.

“We are delighted that the health agreements were validated at the end of 2024 between the health authorities of the two countries.

“Exports of sheep and cattle should begin very soon and continue in the medium term.”

The delegation will attend a feedlot, cattle property and sheep farm as well as touring a livestock export vessel and will receive information on Australia’s strong animal welfare standards and commitment to quality throughout the supply chain.