AHDB attends SIAL China to grow pork exports to Asia

Pork from Britain will be showcased at China’s most important meat trade exhibition next month – as the industry looks to build on record levels of exports in 2018.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) will once again attend SIAL China, which runs from 14 – 16 May in Shanghai, supporting the UK pig sector as it looks to grow exports, not only to China but across all Asian markets

It follows an incredible year for global pig meat exports, with the UK shipping a record total of 347,000 tonnes, worth around £490 million – an increase of 12,000 tonnes and £19 million compared to the previous year.

Pork from Britain is now exported to around 97 countries. In January this year, China was the UK’s biggest buyer – taking 7,800 tonnes of pig meat.

AHDB Head of Asia Pacific Jonathan Eckley said: “Despite a challenging start to the year, an increase in demand resulted in a strong year for UK pork exports with encouraging figures both within the EU and further afield in destinations such as the USA, China and the Philippines.

“The Asian market is a key focus for our export work – it is a region which is experiencing extraordinary growth both in terms of population and affluence. While it presents many possibilities for our red meat sector, it is not without its challenges. Therefore, it’s crucial that we have a strong presence in the region in order to capitalise on the opportunity it holds.”

SIAL China is a unique trade show with a mix of international and national exhibitors. The exhibition sets the benchmark for overseas companies stepping into Asia and China as well as providing valuable market insights, trends and innovations of the regional food and beverage industry.

With 3,500 exhibitors expected at this year’s event, SIAL China will provide pork producers from Britain with the opportunity to build new and existing relationships with major players from the retail and food service sector.

The current situation on the domestic Chinese market is driving demand for imported pig meat so it is essential AHDB attend, giving all leading UK pork exporters an important platform in the market.

“We make it a top priority to attend high-profile events such as SIAL China, where we can showcase our pork products to over 100,000 professionals from around the world,” added Jonathan. “With 19 years’ experience within the Chinese food market, SIAL China provides a perfect platform to exhibit our quality offering to the rest of the world.”