The majority of BC ranchers produce calves. Roughly 95% of the calves produced are transported to Alberta for finishing. The remaining 5% are shipped to the US. BC has a small feedlot and abattoir industry compared to AB and the US. 
      

Most of the resulting beef that is processed in Alberta is consumed in Canada. South Korea, Taiwan, the US and Japan are main export markets for frozen beef from BC.


The US is the most important export market for live cattle from BC, taking 99% of this market. Reversely, the US is also the main source of import cattle into BC.


Although BC has a relatively small portion of the national cattle herd, BC beef producers are just as dependent on strong domestic and foreign demand. BCCA supports and participates in strengthening both areas through provincial marketing initiatives, international trade missions, and funding to the national and international marketing organizations.