Not only has tight supply of imported product been a contributing factor, but also stronger demand for hamburger meat at retail outlets.

US consumers have shifted away from foodservice purchases, as current economic conditions have resulted in growth in backyard grilling and retail sales.

Import prices for Australian 90CL cow beef moved 54.7¢ higher, to a record 181US¢/lb CIF, 43pc above last year's prices.

In A$ terms, Australian 90CL cow beef was 32pc higher year-on-year, at 387.8A¢/kg FAS.

Total Australian beef exports in the US, however, continue to be very much below year ago volumes, with June seeing a 6pc drop on the same time last year, to 16,166 tonnes swt.

Australian chilled shipments dropped 23pc year-on-year, to 2,773 tonnes swt.

Australian frozen beef exports fell a significant 42pc, to 13,210 tonnes swt.