UK meat companies defy the odds to show growth

UK meat companies overcame all the challenges posed by Covid-19 to export shipments worth £733 million in the first six months of the year – an increase of nearly 3% on the same period last year.

Pork exports, up 15% largely as a result of the demand from China, led the way and were valued at £311m, according to data from HMRC.

The AHDB’S international market development director, Dr Phil Hadley, said exports to noneu countries were significant.

“It is imperative with Brexit on the horizon, that we continue to take advantage of the opportunities third countries offer,” he said.

Covid-related challenges on the global food service market and a strong domestic demand meant beef exports were down in volume and value, but shipments to non-eu countries were up 21% in volume and 46% in value. AHDB singled out Japan for bringing a £4.7m boost after 1,369 tonnes of beef was shipped so far this year.

The Philippines imported 51% more beef to 1,958 tonnes and Canada upped their imports from 26 tonnes last year to 968 so far this year.

Meanwhile sheep meat exports increased in value by almost 2% and were worth £195m over the first six months. That included a 129% rise in volumes to noneu countries, including Canada which recorded a sharp rise in shipments this year, and Ghana which largely buys commodity cuts.

The first shipments of UK beef to the United States and China are expected to take place later this year and Dr Hadley said the AHDB would continue to work with government and industry bodies to grow existing markets and access new markets.