South Australia is continuing to become an export powerhouse, setting a new all-time record for goods exports just one month after breaking the previous benchmark.
According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics trade data, the state’s goods exports reached $18.4 billion in the year to May 2026, surpassing the previous record of $18.2 billion set in April. The impressive result represents a $220 million increase in just one month.
It’s only the third time South Australia’s annual export value has exceeded $18 billion, with all three milestones achieved in the first half of 2026.
The record-breaking figures have been fuelled by significant growth across several of the state’s key industries. Copper exports surged 41 per cent to $5.4 billion, while beef climbed 39 per cent to reach $1 billion. Barley exports jumped 60 per cent to $590 million, with seafood also performing strongly as lobster exports rose 43 per cent to $134 million and tuna increased 80 per cent to $118 million.
South Australia’s export growth of 11.4 per cent also far outpaced the national average of 3.7 per cent, highlighting the state’s growing strength in international trade.
The latest figures come as the State Government continues investing in direct international flight connections, creating faster and more efficient freight pathways for South Australian producers to reach overseas markets.
Over the past 12 months, more than 23,000 tonnes of South Australian goods were exported via air freight, representing a 35 per cent increase compared with the previous year.
A major boost came last month with the launch of the first-ever direct flights between Adelaide and Shanghai. The new service is expected to provide capacity for an additional 45 tonnes of South Australian products to be flown directly to China each week, opening new opportunities for exporters of premium produce including lobster, beef, cherries, yoghurt and nuts.
Minister for State Development Chris Picton shared, “To increase our exports by over $220 million in a single month and reach a new all-time high of $18.4 billion is an outstanding achievement that reflects the growing strength and diversity of our economy.
“Our government is committed to supporting more direct flight pathways that unlock quicker, more efficient trade routes for iconic South Australian produce such as yoghurt, beef, nuts and cherries.
“We’re focused on helping local businesses reach more customers around the world because more exports means more jobs, more investment and a stronger economy.”
With back-to-back record-breaking months now under its belt, South Australia is continuing to strengthen its position as one of Australia’s fastest-growing export economies, with local producers finding increasing demand for the state’s food, agriculture, seafood and mineral resources across global markets.
