British Meat Exports to EU Hit Record £1.65 Billion
British Meat Exports to EU Reach Record £1.65bn as SPS Deal Sought
British meat exports to the European Union reached a record £1.65 billion in 2024, underlining the EU’s continued importance as the UK’s largest overseas market for meat products.
Figures highlighted during a Westminster Hall debate, reported by Parallel Parliament, show that export momentum has continued into 2025. In the first ten months of 2025, UK red meat exports to the EU rose 16% year on year, reaching £1.3 billion.
France and the Netherlands were identified as key destination markets, reflecting strong ongoing demand for British beef, lamb and pork despite post-Brexit trading frictions.
SPS agreement back in focus
The debate also focused on the UK government’s ambition to negotiate a UK–EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement. Ministers said such a deal could remove the requirement for export health certificates (EHCs) on most meat consignments, cutting costs by up to £200 per load and significantly reducing border friction.
Industry groups argue that an SPS agreement would improve competitiveness for UK exporters and help restore smoother trade flows, particularly for smaller processors and exporters disproportionately affected by certification costs.
Source: Parallel Parliament (Westminster Hall Debate ) | 7th January 2026
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