Beef and lamb: what do I get for my levy? – Export development

Export provides an opportunity to balance domestic cut preference by selling those products for which there is no strong market at home - read on to learn more about how this works.

By working closely with our partners, AHDB’s red meat exports team aims to remove technical barriers of access to new markets and develop opportunities in both existing and new markets.

To achieve this, we:

• Work with industry and government to identify market opportunities and gain market access approvals to open trade
• Support market development activity in key strategic regions with in-country resources (such as through intelligence and being present at trade shows and bespoke events to promote our products)
• Facilitate trade by supporting exporters with technical challenges and documentation
• Increase our international reputation as producers of safe, wholesome, quality products

In 2021

• Total UK exports of sheep meat were valued at £446 million, with the EU accounting for 92% of shipments
• Despite the new trading relationship with EU markets, France remained the leading destination for UK sheep meat exports, accounting for 51% of UK exports
• UK beef exports totalled £440 million in 2021
• £11.08 million of UK beef was shipped to USA in first full year of market access
• Exports of beef to the Philippines increased by a third on the year in 2021 and were valued at £10.65 million
• Total red meat exports, including pork, from the UK were valued at £1.45 billion in 2021

While the EU remains a key focus for our red meat exports, third-country markets in North America, Asia and Africa provide opportunities to maximise the value of the entire carcase. We continue to promote messages around sustainability, high animal welfare, traceability, grass-fed and outdoor bred under the banner of ‘Quality Meat from Britain’.