Mr Ludwig said in a statement to Farm Weekly this week the claims by the Opposition that the decision from the Indonesian Agriculture Minister Suswono was payback for the live cattle export ban to Indonesia he imposed, were untrue.

"What the Coalition has said is unnecessary, untrue and very damaging for the confidence of the Australian industry," Mr Ludwig said.

"It shows that the Opposition leader Tony Abbott, John Cobb and others, are willing to play on peoples' fears and talk down the entire industry simply to score some cheap political points.

'If the Coalition had got its way, no action would ever have been taken to improve animal welfare, or to secure a long term future for the industry."

Mr Ludwig said the Australian Government remained committed to the live export trade and the decision by Minister Suswono was based on the country's move towards self-sufficiency.

"Decisions about import quotas are a matter for the Indonesian Government," he said.

"Over recent years there has been considerable variation in the number of permits issued.

"Indonesia has repeatedly stated its intention to move towards self-sufficiency in beef production."

Mr Ludwig said the fluctuations in import permits reflected an attempt to balance Indonesia's ambition with the need to supply enough cattle to meet local demand.

"I understand import quotas for Indonesia apply to all countries, not just Australia," he said.

"Last week I discussed this matter with industry and with my State counterparts, all of whom are well aware variations are part and parcel of trading in all markets.

"The Australian Government is actively working with the Indonesian Government to support this mutually beneficial trade now and into the future.

"Australia has already had success in opening and expanding live cattle markets in Vietnam, Turkey and Egypt, and the Gillard Government and industry will continue to pursue new trade avenues."