AHDB to launch blueprint to encourage more UK agri-food businesses to export

On 22 June we will launch a new export strategy at our annual invite-only Exports Conference in London.

The strategy will include plans to encourage more businesses to develop their export potential with the help of enhanced AHDB services. These will include bespoke training and advice, and industry-leading marketing support. It will support our ambition to help increase market access and export sales, by championing the reputation of UK products overseas and to encourage more businesses to explore export possibilities, with our support.

Speakers will provide insight into growing markets, including Asia, the Americas and the Middle East, and will outline what AHDB is doing to maximise their full potential.

Exports and international market development is a critical part of AHDB’s work for levy payers. We already deliver a raft of key activities, working with industry stakeholders to ensure a presence at key global food trade events.

This year this has included the Annual Meat Conference (AMC) in the USA, Gulfood in the Middle East, SIAL China and FoodEx in Japan. More recently AHDB hosted a delegation of key buyers from Japan in a five-day mission to the UK to learn more about sustainable beef, lamb and pork production.

AHDB continues to work collaboratively with industry and government to help UK exporters of red meat and dairy products maximise the opportunities available in existing and new markets. Last year saw the value of red meat exports hit record levels at £1.7 billion, with dairy achieving a similar level.

AHDB Chair Nicholas Saphir said:

“AHDB’s export work includes helping to secure access to new markets, providing valuable market analysis and insight via our Market Intelligence team, and promoting the reputation of our products to foreign buyers. Importantly, with both knowledge and boots on the ground, we have a strong track record of delivering tangible results.

“Our levy payers have told us how much they value our work and want to see more of it. The development of our new export strategy is aimed at acting as a springboard for further global success for our red meat and dairy products.

“This Exports Conference will provide a vital platform to present the enhanced services that AHDB will provide. Export development remains one of the cornerstones of AHDB’s work and I’m excited at how we can play our part in maximising the potential for the future – exports can help levy payers improve overall returns, while supporting the UK government’s wider ambition to become a ‘Great Trading Nation’.”