The second leg of the Federal Government's supply chain reforms in Australia's livestock export markets takes effect in four Middle Eastern countries from today.

From now on livestock exporters can only supply Australian livestock to markets in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Turkey to supply chains accredited under the Federal Government's Export Supply Chain Assurance System.

The new regulatory framework places the onus of responsibility for the welfare of Australian livestock on the shoulders of Australian exporters through to the point of slaughter.

To receive accreditaiton exporters have been required to implement full traceability in supply chains and to bring livestock handling systems and practices up to OIE animal welfare standards.

The major market for cattle included in the four markets that commence in the ESCAS scheme from today is Turkey. 

The main exporter that supplies the Turkish market is understood to be progressing well.

"While the ESCAS is not ready for the deadline, it is expected to be in place in time for a scheduled shipment at the end of March," an industry spokesperson said.

The next deadlines for the rollout of the ESCAS is August 31 for the markets of Israel, Japan, Jordan, Malaysia, Oman, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, and December 31 for Brunei, Mauritius, Russia, Vietnam and all other markets.