£230m boost for Britain as China ends its 23-year ban on our beef

BRITISH beef is back on the menu in China after the lifting of a ban brought in 23 years ago following the outbreak of mad cow disease.

The first shipment will be made before Christmas as part of a boost to the industry thought to be worth £230 million over the next five years.

The Chinese government agreed to end the ban last year but, before giving the final go-ahead, they sent inspectors to visit British farms and processing plants to check the safety of our meat.

Beef from two firms, ABP in Shropshire, and WD Adams of Northern Ireland, has now been approved and the first consignments are due to leave

Felixstowe within weeks. The Chinese like to eat beef from the bone, while cuts such as brisket and shin are in demand because they can be cut into chunks for hot pots easily eaten with chopsticks.

The burgeoning Chinese middle classes and chains Western-style hotels are also demanding topquality sirloin and ribeye steaks.

Environment Secretary Theresa Viliers said: ‘The milestone marks another step towards unlocking the industry’s full potential.’ Liz Truss, International Trade Secretary, added: ‘Chinese diners can now enjoy the best beef in the world.’

The ban had been brought in after mad cow disease (BSE) among cattle was linked to its variant in humans. The devastating and ultimately fatal disease known as vCJD was found in patients who were believed to have eaten infected beef. Strict controls have since ensured British cattle are BSE-free.

Dr Phil Hadley, of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), believes the Chinese market may become even more lucrative for British farmers.

He said: ‘We see new opportunities to provide a range of other meat. The younger generation want to eat burgers, for example. McDonald’s outlets are already in Chinese cities, so it is a growing market.’

He expects more British plants to be approved for Chinese beef exports next year.

The total value of UK beef exports is currently £400 million a year, with most to Europe.

At home, however, the appetite for British beef has dipped – with sales down 0.7 per cent in a year, according to market analysts Kantar Worldpanel.

Sales of beef roasting joints are down 6.7 per cent and steaks down 6.5 per cent, although mince sales are up 6.7 per cent.