Boost for UK pork exports to China with expected profits of £80m
9th December 2024
UK pork exports to China have received a boost with the re-listing of two sites. Defra said that this move could raise revenues by around £80 million.
The news means the end of Covid-era restrictions on UK unprocessed pork exports.
British bangers and other premium pork products will once again be available on the Chinese market, with major UK producers getting the green light to restart their exports immediately.
China remains the UK’s biggest export market for pork. In 2023 the UK exported £180 million worth of pig meat to China and has shipped £117 million worth of product in the first three quarters of 2024.
Now, with these restrictions lifted, even more British produce will be heading east.
The news follows the collaborative efforts between many stakeholders, including government departments, industry and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).
Immense potential of British pork
Angela Christison, AHDB pork sector director, said: “Around 50% of the world’s pork is consumed in China. It’s impossible to overstate the importance of this market with its growing demand.
“The potential for our high-quality pork is immense and we look forward to continuing working with government and industry to maximise the opportunities.
“Going into 2025, this will be a welcome boost for the UK pork sector, and we look forward to achieving further success.”
AHDB added that the re-listing followed efforts over several years, which included frequently bringing the right parties together in the two nations to support discussions, demonstrate the exceptionally high standards of the industry and the sheer economic value of trade to China.
In June, AHDB also hosted a delegation from the China Meat Association (CMA) for a week, which included them presenting to industry and UK government officials at the AHDB Red Meat Export Conference in Butchers’ Hall, London.
‘Massive win’ for British pork producers
Minister for food security Daniel Zeichner called the news a “massive win” for British pork producers who will now be able to send their high-quality products to one of our largest markets, worth £180 million.
“It’s a further example of this government delivering on our Plan for Change, boosting growth and benefitting businesses across the country.
“Our pork is world-famous for its quality, and now we can give Chinese customers what they’re hungry for,” he concluded.
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