Red meat and dairy enjoy record year for exports

Exports of UK dairy and red meat surpassed £4bn in 2025, driven by increased global demand for high quality produce.

HMRC trade figures show UK dairy exports rose by 17% on the year at £2.2bn, while red meat exports increased 12% to £2bn.

Analysis by the AHDB indicate that expanding middle classes in emerging global markets are helping to drive demand for protein.

However, the EU continues to be the major export destination for UK exports, accounting for 74% of the total value of UK dairy exports and 81% of red meat exports.

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Jonathan Eckley, international trade development director at AHDB, said: “The latest full-year figures for 2025 are a remarkable success story, underlining demand for our world-class dairy and red meat produce in a wide portfolio of markets.

“Underpinning our work is the consumer and market insight from our market intelligence team, helping us shape and deliver a programme of promotional activity on the ground to support our export businesses.”

Growing export markets

The AHDB trade development team recently hosted delegates from the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, in a bid to secure greater access to international markets for red meat.

It also welcomed EU meat buyers from France, Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands, as part of its ongoing work to strengthen the UK’s presence in existing markets.

The levy board plans to attend a number of international trade shows, including the Annual Meat Conference in the US, Food & Hospitality Asia in Singapore, and Sial Paris in France, to promote British produce alongside UK meat and dairy processors.

The AHDB’s head of international trade development for dairy said: “The increase in export values is especially validating, with our enhanced on the ground presence in key target markets and wider programme of activity.

“Exports are critical to the UK dairy industry by providing a long-term outlet for surplus production.

“They play a huge role in helping to strengthen demand, build price resilience and support long-term profitability.

“Every extra tonne of cheese, yogurt or other dairy product sold overseas helps balance supply at home.”