Becoming an alpaca investor means taking up the challenge to breed toward the development of a new fibre industry. There is a lucrative niche market for this luxurious, yet resilient fibre both at the local level and on the international export scene.

Because of their short supply, alpacas continue to command high prices, yet they are very economical to manage. They are excellent herd animals where acreage is small - good news for the small landholder. Good news too, for the large landowner wishing to diversify into a luxury fibre offering good returns from a small and easily managed herd.

Already, our talent for efficient fibre production is being channelled into the development of strong, Australian bred alpacas. Eventually there will be top quality fleece in quantities sufficient to supply both local and international demand.

There is a very strong market for alpaca product both in Australia and internationally with supply always falling well short of demand. Australia has already developed past the cottage industry stage and now has the facilities and infrastructure in place to value-add to the local clip. Alpaca garments and yarn are produced by a number of companies and fashion houses demonstrate an increasing interest in the value of alpaca fibre.

Those who now direct their efforts into alpaca breeding will receive top prices for quality animals and, in the long term, increasingly generous returns for alpaca fleece from a proven luxury fibre market.

There are many benefits to be gained from owning alpacas and not merely those related to investment.