British Pork Secures £19 Million Export Deal with Mexico

British Pork Secures £19 Million Export Deal with Mexico

The British pork export deal with Mexico marks a major breakthrough for the UK meat sector. Valued at £19 million, it opens a new market for pork producers in England and Northern Ireland.

Deal Details

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed the agreement on 29 August 2025. Under the deal, 12 approved businesses can now export pork cuts, offal, and edible by-products to Mexico.

This step supports the UK’s plan to expand food and drink exports. It should also boost farmgate prices, improve carcass values, and strengthen Britain’s role as a trusted supplier of high-welfare pork.

Industry Response

“British pork is renowned for its quality and high welfare standards, so it’s no surprise to see global demand continuing to grow,” said Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs. “This is a tremendous win for our pork producers.”

The announcement follows the UK’s recent success in resuming pork exports to China. Moreover, it fits with the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to support rural economies and open new markets.

Exports Minister Gareth Thomas added:
“This is a £20 million win for British farming and a clear example of how we’re removing trade barriers and delivering fast results for UK producers.”

Market Outlook

For the first time, Northern Irish exporters will gain access to the Mexican market. As a result, the deal could further raise the profile of UK pork globally.

In conclusion, the British pork export deal with Mexico represents a strong step forward. It provides new opportunities for producers and strengthens the UK’s position in global pork trade.

Original source: Gov.uk

AIMS: UK risks missing halal meat export boom without joined-up strategy

UK Halal Meat Market: Untapped Potential for Growth

4 August 2025 — UK | The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) says ministers are overlooking the halal meat sector. The group warns Britain is “squandering a post-Brexit advantage” as rivals court high-growth markets.

AIMS says the sector is dynamic and high value at home and abroad. However, there is no formal UK programme to champion halal on trade missions. As a result, opportunities are being missed.

“The halal meat market is not a niche. It is a major global growth segment,” said Executive Director Dr Jason Aldiss BEM. “British producers, processors and certifiers can deliver high-welfare, fully traceable halal meat to world-leading standards. But without government recognition and support, international customers will look elsewhere.”
Industry projections put the global halal economy in the trillions by 2028. Therefore, AIMS wants halal promoted like Scotch whisky, Cheddar and craft gin. Specifically, it calls for trade envoys, commercial attachés and targeted export campaigns.

AIMS addresses welfare head-on. Most UK halal production is pre-stunned and all plants are FSA-inspected and fully regulated. As a result, the group argues that halal can align with high UK welfare and food-safety standards.

AIMS is also pushing for a cross-government plan. It wants DEFRA, DBT and the FCDO to meet sector representatives and design a halal export and market-development strategy. It wants clear priorities and timelines.

What AIMS is asking for

  • First, active promotion of UK halal on trade missions in priority regions.
  • Second, investment in UK halal assurance to strengthen integrity and consumer confidence.
  • Finally, explicit inclusion of halal meat in future trade deals and export campaigns.

“This is not about deregulation,” Dr Aldiss added. “It is about intelligent engagement. If the UK is serious about growth and about promoting British food on the world stage, it cannot leave halal behind.”


Source: AIMS press release, 4 August 2025.

UK Signs Trade Deal with India

UK-India Trade Deal 2025 – £6 Billion Boost and Jobs

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signed the UK-India trade deal 2025. The agreement is forecast to create 2,200 new jobs and deliver a £4.8 billion annual boost to Britain’s GDP.

Deal Details

The deal is the most comprehensive trade agreement India has ever entered. It removes tariffs on 90% of UK exports to India, creating major opportunities in aerospace, manufacturing, clean energy, and financial services.

Tariffs on British whisky will drop immediately from 150% to 75%. Over the next decade, they will fall further to 40%. In addition, exports of cosmetics, medical devices, soft drinks, and lamb will benefit from reduced duties.

Industry and Government Reaction

“British pork is renowned for its quality and high welfare standards, so it’s no surprise to see global demand continuing to grow,” said Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs. “This is a tremendous win for our pork producers.”

The UK has also recently resumed pork exports to China. Moreover, this agreement supports the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to grow rural economies and secure new trade deals.

Exports Minister Gareth Thomas added:
“This is a £20 million win for British farming and a clear example of how we’re removing trade barriers and delivering fast results for UK producers.”

Market Outlook

The deal will bring £6 billion in new investment, including £5 billion in Airbus and Rolls-Royce contracts to supply aircraft and engines. It also gives UK service firms access to India’s £38 billion procurement market. Furthermore, it streamlines customs for SMEs and includes commitments on insurance and professional qualifications.

Beyond trade, the deal deepens cooperation on defence, education, climate, and technology. It builds on the UK-India Technology Security Initiative launched in 2024.

In summary, the UK-India trade deal 2025 opens one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets. It strengthens the UK’s global competitiveness and creates lasting benefits for British exporters.

UK Offal Market Worth £244m: New Opportunities at Home and Abroad

UK Offal Market Worth £244m in 2025: Key Insights

The UK offal market 2025 is delivering value both at home and abroad according to recent AHDB data. Exports reached £244 million last year, while domestic sales continued to grow, albeit modestly.

Domestic Trends

From 1 June 2025, consumers spent around £30 million on primary red meat offal. That figure rose 1.8% in value, even though volumes fell 7.9% to just over 6,000 tonnes. Lamb offal remains the most popular category, accounting for over 50% of sales. Pork followed with 30%, and beef made up 19%. Notably, 11% of UK households are buying offal. While older consumers still lead purchases, there’s growing interest from families with children. This shift highlights declining volume among older shoppers, with new growth opportunities waiting in younger demographics.

Export Highlights

Exports are the backbone of the UK offal trade. Pork offal generated £162 million, with over half going to China. The EU and the Philippines also featured as key markets. Beef offal exports grew to £70 million, up from £61 million in 2023. Major destinations include France, Canada, the US, Japan, and Ghana. Meanwhile, sheep offal contributed £12 million, with 77% of it going to EU countries. Much of this trade is in fresh—not frozen—products, particularly within the EU. As such, maintaining cold-chain capacity is critical.

New Opportunities Ahead

The UK offal market 2025 offers room for innovation, especially domestically. Retail-ready formats and health messaging could broaden appeal. On the export side, there’s room to diversify beyond core markets like China and the EU. Emerging economies also show strong demand for affordable protein markets. Meanwhile, optimizing supply chains continues to offer both commercial and environmental advantages.

The full AHDB report, including export data and consumer insights, is available on the AHDB website.

GB Pig Prices Edge Up in Q2 2025 Amid Strong Demand and Export Growth

GB Pig Prices Edge Up in Q2 2025 Amid Strong Demand and Export Growth

Great Britain’s pig prices showed a steady upward trend through the second quarter of 2025. The GB pig prices Q2 2025 average—the SPP for EU-spec pigs—climbed steadily from early April to early July, reaching 207.55 p/kg, a 2.79 p/kg rise.

Market Drivers

Domestic demand remains resilient, with Kantar reporting a 0.8% YoY increase in retail pig meat volumes for the 12 weeks to mid-June. This growth is largely thanks to added-value products and a seasonal boost from Easter and warm weather. Meanwhile, shoppers continue shifting from beef to pork, largely due to price differences.

EU prices rebounded in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with UK prices. By early July, the EU Grade E reference price reached 180.62 p/kg, still 27p below the GB SPP. Germany’s reinstated FMD-free status and increased seasonal demand helped fuel this rebound.

Trade Performance

UK pig meat exports rose substantially in May—10% month-on-month and 20% year-on-year, hitting nearly 27,000 tonnes. China emerged as the key destination driving growth.

Imports also increased, rising 9% from April and 3% YoY to 66,600 tonnes, boosted by stronger supply from Germany. Notably, the share of British pork on retail shelves remained stable, reinforcing domestic market strength.

Production Trends

Pig meat production remained positive. Q2 totalled 239,000 tonnes, up 1.6% YoY, supported by a similar rise in clean pig kill. Average carcase weights remained stable at around 90.3 kg. Warm weather slightly reduced weights in recent weeks.

Original reporting by AHDB 

AHDB

Brazilian Meatpackers Reconsider U.S. Beef Exports Amid Tariff Pressures

Brazilian Meatpackers Reconsider U.S. Beef Exports Amid Tariff Pressures – July 2025

The latest Brazilian meatpackers U.S. beef exports 2025 update highlights major challenges for South America’s largest beef supplier. Exporters are rethinking their shipments to the United States after steep tariffs were reintroduced under former President Donald Trump’s trade policy.

Tariff Impact on Brazilian Beef

The U.S. government has applied new tariffs on a wide range of imported goods. These include several agricultural products, with beef among the hardest hit. Consequently, Brazilian beef now faces higher costs at the U.S. border. This change makes it less competitive when compared with American and other global suppliers.

Industry leaders warn that these tariffs could reduce export volumes. Premium beef cuts, which traditionally serve the U.S. retail and foodservice sectors, may be affected most.

Industry Response and Market Outlook

Brazilian meat companies are already exploring alternative markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. They aim to offset potential losses and reduce reliance on the American market. In addition, the meat industry lobby has urged the Brazilian government to engage Washington in talks. They want exemptions or tariff relief to protect long-term trade.

Meanwhile, analysts believe the tariffs may encourage exporters to divert beef to other regions. Increased shipments to China and North Africa are possible, while domestic processing could also see renewed investment.

Global Beef Trade Shifts

This development shows how geopolitical decisions can quickly reshape trade. Higher U.S. beef import tariffs may open opportunities for competitors such as Australia and Argentina, while creating new challenges for Brazil.

In summary, the Brazilian meatpackers U.S. beef exports 2025 report underlines how tariff changes can alter global beef flows. Exporters and UK traders should continue monitoring developments closely.

Original reporting by Reuters.

Meat, Dairy, and Oils Drive Up Global Food Prices

Global Food Prices Edge Up in June 2025 as Meat, Dairy and Oils Drive Gains

The global food prices June 2025 update shows a modest rise. The FAO Food Price Index averaged 128.0 points, up 0.5% from May. Declines in cereals and sugar were outweighed by gains in meat, dairy, and vegetable oils.

Key Commodity Trends

Cereals: The index fell by 1.5%, reflecting strong harvests in Argentina and Brazil. As a result, maize, sorghum, and barley prices dropped. However, wheat prices climbed due to poor weather in the EU, Russia, and the United States. Rice also eased slightly, particularly Indica varieties.

Vegetable oils: Global prices increased by 2.3%. Palm oil rose nearly 5%, supported by strong import demand. Furthermore, soy oil strengthened on expectations of higher biofuel use in Brazil and the USA. Rapeseed oil values climbed due to tight supply forecasts, while sunflower oil eased as Black Sea production improved.

Meat: The Meat Price Index gained 2.1%, hitting a record high. Bovine, pig, and ovine meat prices all moved upward. In contrast, poultry values continued to fall, reflecting ongoing market adjustments.

Dairy: The Dairy Price Index rose 0.5%. Butter reached a new record high because of limited supplies in Oceania and the EU. Cheese prices increased for the third month running. On the other hand, milk powder slipped slightly due to weak global demand.

Sugar: The Sugar Price Index declined by 5.2%, marking its fourth consecutive monthly fall. Improved harvests in Brazil, India, and Thailand drove the drop.

Market Outlook

Overall, the global food prices June 2025 report signals cautious optimism. Prices remain 5.8% higher than June 2024, yet well below the March 2022 peak. Rising meat and dairy values could support trade, but grain and sugar softness may limit wider growth.

Original reporting by Mercopress.

Australian Livestock Markets Show Mixed Trends

Australian Livestock Markets Mid-2025 Update: Lamb Prices Surge

The Australian livestock markets mid-2025 update shows mixed performance. While lamb prices hit record highs, cattle indicators softened amid shifting supply dynamics.

Cattle Market Trends

Cattle yardings rose by 5,240 head, bringing the current total to 61,316. This increase was largely driven by more processor cows, restocker heifers, and steers.
Meanwhile, the Heavy Steer Indicator slipped 18¢ to 364¢/kg liveweight (lwt). In Victoria, the drop was steeper, with a decline of 19¢, although Leongatha still reported a peak of 458¢/kg lwt.
In contrast, the Processor Cow Indicator rose 9¢ to 310¢/kg lwt, supported by strong demand for leaner cows, especially in Victoria where it jumped 23¢.

Winter conditions in parts of Australia are putting pressure on cattle quality. As a result, certain export and trade categories have seen softening prices.

Sheep Market Highlights

Sheep yardings expanded by 3,274 head to 255,334, with lamb yardings up 3,376 head.
The Trade Lamb Indicator jumped 77¢ to 1,148¢/kg carcase weight (cwt). Similarly, the Heavy Lamb Indicator gained 38¢ to 1,135¢/kg cwt.
Record-breaking prices were achieved in key markets: Wagga reported $441/head, and Bendigo hit $435/head, both with average carcase weights around 40–42kg. Notably, well-finished lambs outperformed, with 26–30kg lambs fetching $320–375/head.

Slaughter Volumes

National cattle slaughter declined by 5,981 head, totalling 153,008 head, although this remains 9% higher than the same week in 2024. Queensland contributed most to the decline.
Sheep and lamb slaughter also fell, dropping 14,788 head to 498,773, marking a 15% year-on-year decrease. South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria saw the largest reductions.

Original reporting by Meat & Livestock Australia. Full report available here 

Irish Sheep Prices Hold Firm Amid Seasonal Supply Tightening

Irish Sheep Prices Hold Firm Amid Seasonal Supply Tightening – July 2025

The Irish sheep prices July 2025 update shows stability across key categories. Strong seasonal demand and tighter supplies are supporting the trade, according to the latest figures from Bord Bia.

Lamb Trade Overview

Factory quotes for spring lambs remained firm. Base prices stood between €7.20 and €7.40/kg, with higher returns available for in-spec lambs and members of producer groups. In addition, heavier lambs suited to Eid al-Adha attracted strong interest, helping to keep values steady.

Meanwhile, live trade has stayed active. Both factory agents and butchers competed at marts, further boosting market confidence.

Cull Ewe Market

Cull ewe prices also held steady. Well-fleshed ewes sold for €2.30–2.60/kg, depending on quality and location. Domestic buyers supported demand, while export interest added further stability.

Market Outlook

Looking ahead, throughput is expected to ease in the coming weeks. Seasonal festival demand should provide a short-term lift, which may keep lamb prices supported through July. However, weather patterns and grass growth will remain critical factors. Limited pasture growth could restrict supplies and maintain firm pricing.

Overall, the Irish sheep prices July 2025 report highlights a market holding steady under pressure. With seasonal demand and supply constraints shaping conditions, Irish lamb and sheep trade is expected to stay resilient in the near term.

Original data and insights sourced from Bord Bia.

Irish Cattle Throughput Rises Slightly as Prices Hold Firm

Irish Cattle Throughput Rises Slightly as Prices Hold Firm – July 2025 Update

The Irish cattle market has shown modest growth in throughput while maintaining firm prices across most categories. According to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), a total of 869,587 head were processed in DAFM-approved plants by the week ending 28 June 2025. This represents a year-on-year increase of 5,758 head.

Throughput Trends in the Irish Cattle Market

  • Prime cattle numbers reached 656,185 head, up 1.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.
  • Young bull slaughter stabilised after an earlier decline, now aligning with 2024 levels.
  • Steer and cow throughput declined, with 197,223 cows processed—down 23,000 head year-on-year.
  • The shortfall was offset by increased heifer throughput, helping to balance overall supply.

Irish Beef Prices Hold Steady

  • Steers: €7.10–€7.20/kg
  • Heifers: €7.20–€7.30/kg
  • Young bulls (U grade, under 16 months): €7.10–€7.30/kg, with flat prices up to €7.40/kg for R grades
  • O grade cows: €6.90/kg
  • R grade cows: €7.00/kg
  • R3 steers: Average €7.23/kg
  • R3 heifers: Average €7.28/kg (down 3c/kg from the previous week)

Prices exclude VAT but include bonuses such as in-spec and breed-based premiums.

EU and UK Market Comparison

  • EU R3 young bulls averaged €6.23/kg, up €1.15/kg from 2024.
  • UK R3 steer prices remained strong at €7.15/kg, reflecting tight supply and firm demand.

For more insights, see our recent updates on the UK cattle and sheep market and Australian livestock trends.

Bord Bia

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