UK pork exports see record March

British pork exports in March were the best for a single month in 16 years.

Just under 18,200t was shipped from the UK to 30 countries, 13% more than the same time a year earlier and the highest monthly figure since 1998.

Exports to China and Hong Kong also hit 5,000t for the first time, while the 2,600t of offal shipped was the best total ever.

See also: Tight pork supplies lift global prices

BPEX export manager Jean-Pierre Garnier said the overall figure was evidence of strong global demand for British pork.

“The exports to China are a massive figure bearing in mind that market has not been open to us for every long,” he said.

“We are benefiting from a favourable market but the commitment of British exporters has been exemplary.

“For instance, six exporters attended a very busy [food show] in Shanghai this week and we are back next month to Beijing.”

“The exports to China are a massive figure bearing in mind that market has not been open to us for every long.”
Jean-Pierre Garnier, BPEX export manager

Mr Garnier said the prices achieved by processors in foreign markets had also risen strongly.

“Exports are definitely making a major contribution to the renewed health of the sector,” he said.

UK pig prices have been steady in the past few weeks, with the EU-spec DAPP rising 0.11p to 164.01p/kg in the week ending 10 May.

Throughputs totalled 158,800 head the week before, 3% lower than a year earlier.