Lambassador Showcase highlights potential of Australian lamb

The 2025 Lambassador Showcase, organised by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), concluded on April 21, garnering significant attention from culinary experts, chefs, restaurant and hotel representatives, and enthusiasts of the unique taste of Australian lamb.

Lambassador recipes showcasing the versatility of Australian lamb across diverse culinary styles

According to the MLA, China is the largest consumer market of lamb, with Australia being the leading exporter.

Speaking at the event, Spencer Whitaker, market development manager for Asia-Pacific at the MLA, highlighted key consumption trends in both China and Japan. He also pointed to Vietnam as a promising growth market, noting that culinary influences from these neighbouring powerhouses are increasingly shaping local dining habits.

Beyond being a rich source of protein, lamb distinguishes itself with its characteristic and appealing flavour, coupled with high nutritional value. Its perceived 'cooling' properties and easy digestibility have made lamb a preferred choice for many consumers.

The versatility of its culinary applications, ranging from traditional roasts to modern innovative dishes, further enhances the appeal of this ingredient.

Moreover, with increasing consumer focus on origin and quality, Australian lamb, with its stringent production processes, consistently receives high acclaim.

Leveraging natural advantages, rigorous standards, the application of advanced scientific and technical methods, and a commitment to sustainability, the Australian sheep farming industry has established a robust global reputation.

This harmonious combination allows Australian lamb to meet domestic demand and solidify its position as a leading exporter, conquering the most exacting markets with its quality and reliable origin.

The exceptional reputation and quality of Australian lamb extends beyond simply providing premium ingredients.

To disseminate these values and inspire creativity within the global culinary community, MLA initiated the Lambassador scheme, collaborating with talented chefs worldwide to promote and innovate with Australian lamb.

The event elevates awareness of Australian lamb's quality while fostering culinary innovation and cultivating a community passionate about this ingredient.

Industry participants tasted nine different lamb cuts

The Lambassador Showcase in Ho Chi Minh City offered a unique platform for Vietnamese culinary professionals to engage with leading Asian 'Lambassadors': Moriaki Higashizawa from Japan, Chef Bin Dai from China, and Francis Thuan and Aeron Tran from Vietnam.

Each Lambassador brought unique perspectives and exceptional culinary creations featuring Australian lamb, enriching the experience for attendees.

Attendees witnessed world-class culinary demonstrations, participated in in-depth masterclasses and workshops, and savoured an exclusive menu featuring Australian lamb.

Lambassadors from Japan, China, and Vietnam at Lambassador Showcase 2025

A key highlight of the event was the workshop, which unveiled in-depth knowledge on maximising the potential of lamb in diverse markets.

Speakers focused on analysing lamb market trends in the Asia region. Another crucial aspect of the workshop provided guidance on utilising secondary cuts of lamb to create more cost-effective yet unique and appealing menu options.

Experts also shared practical insights into introducing innovative lamb dishes tailored to the palates and preferences of specific markets, thereby opening up creative avenues for restaurants and food businesses.

Chef Francis Thuan, founder and head chef of Naphele and one of the Lambassadors, has been a vocal advocate of integrating lamb into local cuisine.

“Lamb is a highly nutritious ingredient, but it's not yet a common part of the Vietnamese diet. I’ve had the opportunity to be a Lambassador since 2022 and visited Australia to see the entire journey from farm to table. Since then, lamb dishes have become a regular feature on my restaurant menu. I’m always eager to introduce lamb in a way that feels familiar and approachable to the Vietnamese palate,” he said.

The event culminated in a truly multicultural gastronomic journey, where guests enjoyed exquisite dishes prepared by the Lambassadors themselves, fostering inspiring conversations and valuable networking opportunities.

The 2025 Lambassador Showcase was not merely a culinary event, it was also a forum for industry professionals to share knowledge, explore potential, and expand collaborative networks, promising new opportunities for the growth of Australian lamb in the Vietnamese and broader Asian markets.

VIBS 2024 to showcase Vietnam's bakery industry Over 120 exhibitors representing both domestic and international brands will gather at the Vietnam International Bakery Show (VIBS) in Ho Chi Minh City from December 11 to 14.

Singaporean diplomat highlights green cooperation for sustainability The Vietnam-Singapore Sustainability Forum 2025, chaired by the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations, took place in Ho Chi Minh City on March 14.

Green Energy Transition Showcase powers sustainable future The Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) on August 27 launched the Green Energy Transition Showcase with the theme Powering a Sustainable Future in Ho Chi Minh City.