AHDB has announced that it 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.
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.
Jonathan Eckley, AHDB’s head of Asia Pacific, 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.”
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.
Mr Eckley added: “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.”
