Top 20 Lamb Exporting Countries Worldwide

User avatar placeholder
Written by Robert Gultig

16 October 2025

Introduction:

The global market for lamb exports continues to be a significant sector within the food and beverage industry. With increasing demand for high-quality lamb products worldwide, countries are focusing on improving production and export capabilities. In 2020, the total global lamb exports were valued at over $8 billion, with a steady growth rate projected for the coming years.

Top 20 Lamb Exporting Countries Worldwide:

1. New Zealand – New Zealand is the largest exporter of lamb in the world, with over 400,000 tonnes exported annually. The country is known for its high-quality grass-fed lamb products, which are in demand across the globe.

2. Australia – Australia is the second-largest exporter of lamb, with exports reaching around 200,000 tonnes per year. The country has a strong reputation for producing premium lamb products for international markets.

3. United Kingdom – The UK is a key player in the global lamb export market, with exports exceeding 100,000 tonnes annually. The country’s traditional sheep farming practices contribute to the high quality of its lamb products.

4. Ireland – Ireland is known for its high-quality grass-fed lamb, with exports totaling over 50,000 tonnes per year. The country’s sustainable farming practices and focus on animal welfare contribute to the popularity of its lamb products.

5. Spain – Spain is a major player in the European lamb export market, with exports reaching over 40,000 tonnes annually. The country’s diverse range of lamb products, including cured meats and specialty cuts, are in high demand globally.

6. France – France is renowned for its premium lamb products, with exports exceeding 30,000 tonnes per year. The country’s strong culinary traditions and emphasis on quality contribute to the popularity of its lamb exports.

7. Romania – Romania is a significant exporter of lamb in Eastern Europe, with exports reaching around 25,000 tonnes annually. The country’s extensive pasturelands and traditional farming methods support its thriving lamb export industry.

8. Argentina – Argentina is a major player in the South American lamb export market, with exports totaling over 20,000 tonnes per year. The country’s grass-fed lamb products are highly sought after in international markets.

9. Uruguay – Uruguay is known for its high-quality grass-fed lamb, with exports exceeding 15,000 tonnes annually. The country’s focus on sustainable farming practices and animal welfare contribute to the success of its lamb exports.

10. China – China has emerged as a key player in the global lamb export market, with exports reaching around 10,000 tonnes per year. The country’s growing middle class and increasing demand for high-quality protein sources have driven the growth of its lamb export industry.

11. United States – The US is a significant player in the global lamb export market, with exports totaling over 5,000 tonnes per year. The country’s focus on premium lamb products and innovative marketing strategies have contributed to the success of its exports.

12. Chile – Chile is a major exporter of lamb in South America, with exports reaching around 4,000 tonnes annually. The country’s diverse range of lamb products, including specialty cuts and value-added products, are popular in international markets.

13. South Africa – South Africa is a key player in the African lamb export market, with exports exceeding 3,000 tonnes per year. The country’s focus on high-quality grass-fed lamb products has helped it gain a competitive edge in the global market.

14. Canada – Canada is known for its premium lamb products, with exports totaling over 2,000 tonnes per year. The country’s sustainable farming practices and strict quality control measures contribute to the success of its lamb exports.

15. Greece – Greece is renowned for its traditional lamb products, with exports reaching around 1,500 tonnes annually. The country’s rich culinary heritage and emphasis on quality have helped establish its reputation in the global market.

16. Netherlands – The Netherlands is a major player in the European lamb export market, with exports exceeding 1,000 tonnes per year. The country’s focus on sustainable farming practices and innovative production methods contribute to the success of its lamb exports.

17. Germany – Germany is a key player in the European lamb export market, with exports totaling over 800 tonnes per year. The country’s strong agricultural sector and commitment to quality have helped it establish a strong presence in the global market.

18. Brazil – Brazil is a significant player in the South American lamb export market, with exports reaching around 600 tonnes annually. The country’s diverse range of lamb products, including specialty cuts and organic options, are popular in international markets.

19. Italy – Italy is known for its premium lamb products, with exports exceeding 400 tonnes per year. The country’s rich culinary traditions and focus on quality have helped it gain a competitive edge in the global market.

20. Sweden – Sweden is a key player in the European lamb export market, with exports totaling over 300 tonnes per year. The country’s sustainable farming practices and emphasis on animal welfare contribute to the success of its lamb exports.

Insights:

The global lamb export market is expected to continue growing steadily in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for high-quality protein sources worldwide. Key trends shaping the market include a focus on sustainable farming practices, innovative production methods, and a growing emphasis on animal welfare. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental and ethical implications of their food choices, countries that prioritize these factors are likely to see increased success in the global lamb export market. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and online platforms for food sales is expected to further boost the accessibility of lamb products to consumers around the world. With these trends in mind, the future looks bright for the top 20 lamb exporting countries worldwide.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
View Robert’s LinkedIn Profile →