MLA analysis of cattle exports and boxed beef exports to Indonesia over the past four years shows there has been rapid growth - and at similar rates - of both forms of trade.

The analysis shows that for the 2007-08 financial year live cattle exports to Indonesia totalled 547,000 head, which is the equivalent of 146,600 tonnes carcase weight.

This grew from 452,000 head and 121,600 tonnes in 2006-07.

Boxed beef exports during 2007-08 totalled 46,100 tonnes (carcase weight), up from 28,000t in 2006-07.

Australia's live cattle trade to Indonesia was worth $341 million during 2007-08, up from $303m the year before, while boxed beef exports were worth $99m, up from $73m in 2006-07.

MLA chairman Don Heatley said that when combined, the figures show Indonesia is now Australia's third biggest overseas market for beef, behind Japan and the US and ahead of Korea and Russia.

"When you combine live cattle exports and boxed beef exports, not only does Indonesia become Australia's third largest export destination by volume, it is also the fourth most valuable, worth a combined $440m in 2007-08," Mr Heatley said.

"The pleasing thing about the growth of the Indonesian market is that it is accommodating both live cattle and boxed beef.

"Both forms of trade are growing at impressive rates and this is a great thing for Australia's cattle producers."

And the good news is set to continue, with beef exports to Indonesia forecast to expand a further 23pc by the end of 2008 and another 12pc in 2009.

Indonesia is expected to remain the dominant live cattle export market and grow further in the short to medium term, particularly given the recent growth in Indonesian investment in feedlot capacity.