British beef exports enjoyed a strong performance from both EU and non EU markets in the first half of 2024, according to the latest AHDB figures released today.
AHDB report that red meat exports were valued at £860 million in the period from January to June this year, representing a 2% increase in value on the corresponding figures for last year.
The report also indicates that the volume of red meat exports was also up by 2% on last year’s figures, standing at 260,000t.
The total trade of British beef increased by 11% in both value and volume, which was largely driven by demand from non-EU markets, which was up 37% on 2023 levels, as well as markets in northern Europe, AHDB said.
Beef exports to France and the Netherlands – the UK’s biggest markets in the EU, were up 6% and 15% respectively, AHDB report.
Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) Head of International Trade Development, Jonathan Eckley said: “The figures for total red meat exports in the first half of 2024 are encouraging.
“Last year red meat exports totalled £1.7 billion for the year, equalling the record set in 2022, and exporters are on target to achieve that again in 2024. Beef exports have been the standout success in the first half of 2024.
“Demand from our major markets in northern Europe such as France and the Netherlands has remained robust, while the increase in volume of shipments to non-EU markets, particularly in West Africa, illustrates again the importance of carcase balance with beef offal volumes up 10%.”
AHDB sheep and pig exports
While the volume of sheep meat exports in the first half of 2024 fell by 8% compared to last year’s figures, their value saw a 9% increase, reflecting tight supplies and high livestock prices. with shipments to France valued at £163m (up 23%), the Netherlands at £12 million (up 60%) and Belgium at £41 million (up 39%).
“Sheep meat exports have been under pressure in the first half of the year due to tight production, but are still critical to the sector, with 30% being exported, equaling exports from last year.
“As we have seen with beef, demand has held up in several of our major European markets, demonstrating continuing robust demand for quality British lamb,” Eckley added.
In contrast, pig meat export volumes were down 2% on the year in the first half of 2024, however volumes to the Philippines, where AHDB attended the WOFEX trade show earlier this year, were up 23%, while volumes to South Africa jumped by 42% and to the US by 4%.
“While it’s always disappointing to see a fall in volume, there are some positive signals, like beef, carcase balance remains an important factor for the pork sector, and volumes of fifth quarter products exported in the first half of the year are level with the same period in 2023, which is encouraging.
“AHDB remains committed to helping drive export growth for quality British red meat and dairy and has an extensive programme of activity planned for the remainder of 2024 to support our levy payers.
“This includes a trade mission to South Africa and participation in trade shows in China, the US and of course SIAL Paris in October – the world’s leading trade show of the year.
“We will continue to work with industry and Government to cultivate the opportunities for high-quality red meat and dairy on the global stage, showcasing quality British produce and connecting with key buyers from around the world,” Eckley said.
