Scotland’s Red Meat and Offal Exports Surge to £137m, QMS Survey Reveals
Scotland’s red meat and offal exports beyond the UK have experienced a significant rise, reaching a value of £137 million, according to the latest survey by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).
The report highlights a remarkable recovery in the sector, with a 26% increase in export value compared to previous years.
Beef exports played a crucial role in this growth, with 67% of the total value coming from the beef trade. However, lamb and pig meat also contributed substantially. Notably, offal exports showed strong performance, further boosting the overall figures.
Sarah Millar, Chief Executive of QMS, welcomed the findings, describing the surge as a testament to the hard work and resilience of Scotland’s red meat industry in navigating challenges such as Brexit, fluctuating market conditions, and rising costs. She emphasised that this increase demonstrates the enduring demand for Scotland’s high-quality, sustainably produced meat in international markets.
Europe remains the largest export destination for Scottish red meat, accounting for the majority of the trade, though significant growth was observed in exports to Asian and Middle Eastern markets.
The QMS report underlines the vital role of exports in supporting the Scottish economy, particularly rural communities. With red meat and offal exports outside the UK contributing significantly to the sector’s £2 billion turnover, the figures serve as an encouraging sign for the future of Scotland’s farming and food industry.
QMS continues to support the sector through initiatives aimed at improving sustainability, animal welfare, and traceability, all of which are key drivers behind Scotland’s growing reputation in global markets.
As demand for premium Scottish meat increases, the focus will now turn to expanding existing markets and exploring new trade opportunities outside the EU.
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