In 2024, Australian lamb prices have surged, with heavy lamb prices reaching around $9 per kilogram due to strong export demand from regions like the US, North America, and the Middle East. Despite high slaughter levels from destocking, light lambs remain in demand, particularly in the Middle East. Mutton prices are expected to rise as supply tightens, potentially doubling by 2025. The UAE is becoming a key market for boxed lamb meat, though concerns about drought and El Nino persist. In Western Australia, a live sheep export ban and price discounts have hurt producer confidence, leading to a significant reduction in flock size as many sheep are moved east for slaughter.