British pork to be showcased in Shanghai as China demand soars

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.

AHDB will once again attend SIAL China, which runs from May 14-16 in Shanghai, supporting the UK pig sector as it looks to grow exports, not only to China but across all Asian markets.

Last year, the UK shipped 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.

Growth in Chinese export demand on the back of the African swine fever outbreak is creating new export opportunities and strengthening the global pork market. In January this year, China was the UK’s biggest buyer – taking 7,800 tonnes of pig meat.

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.

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.”