NATIONAL: Australian wool suppliers could lose valuable market share to their international competitors, following an announcement the industry was unlikely to meet the 2010 mulesing deadline.
Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) claimed the "deadline" approach would risk a serious deterioration in the welfare of sheep and negatively impact on the production and supply of wool.
The organisation said a new flystrike prevention policy was to be adopted.
"The new policy supports a scientific, fact-based approach to ensure the optimal health, welfare and productivity of Australian sheep and to ensure they are protected from the risks of disease and death."
International retail giants Marks & Spencer, Hugo Boss, Abercrombie and Fitch, H&M and Nike were among those opposed to Australian wool farmers' practice of mulesing.
According to regional news service Rural Press, Marks & Spencer would not budge on the 2010 deadline initially put forward by AWI . Last month the publication obtained a letter from the UK retailer which stated:
..."the 2010 deadline is not negotiable and a loss of confidence in M&S wool products could well lead to widespread consumer boycotting and loss of revenue for the whole supply chain."
AWI said it would establish a Flystrike Prevention Commitee to monitor progress in flystrike control.