UK signs trade deal with India

The Department for Business and Trade today announced the signing of a comprehensive trade agreement between the United Kingdom and India, a development hailed by the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS).

The newly secured deal will result in significant tariff reductions by India, covering 90% of all tariff lines. Notably, 85% of these will become entirely tariff-free within a ten-year timeframe. British lamb is among the key agricultural products set to benefit from this agreement.

Tony Goodger, Head of Communications for AIMS, stated: “The reduction in tariffs on lamb exports to India represents a major win for our members. We anticipate strong demand for our premium offerings, such as Welsh PGI Lamb and Scotch PGI Lamb, from India’s expanding middle class. Furthermore, the agreement opens up significant opportunities for our high-quality assured Halal lamb to cater to India’s substantial Muslim population of over 200 million people.”

AIMS will now seek clarification from the DBT regarding the future tariff status of UK pork and pet food exports to India.

Meat Price Inflation Shows No Sign of Slowing

Consumers are continuing to feel the pinch as meat price inflation remains stubbornly high, according to the latest AIMS Meat Inflation Tracker Report for April 2025.

The report reveals that fresh meat prices have increased by a significant 11.53% compared to April 2024, with a further rise of 3.48% recorded in the last month alone.

Tony Goodger, Head of Communications at AIMS, commenting on the concerning figures, stated, “Our report, which is based AHDB’s supermarket price tracker, and our own monitoring of the chicken market shows that meat price inflation is being driven by 12 months of steep rises across beef (+20.96%) and lamb (+19.92%) cuts.”

For consumers seeking more budget-friendly options, Mr. Goodger pointed to a notable exception in the market. “Consumers looking for the very best value should go for British farm assured chicken legs as they haven’t moved at all during the last month and are 5p/kg down (2.03%) year on year.”

He also highlighted some slight relief in the pork sector. “That said,” Mr. Goodger added, “British Pork cuts such as belly slices, tenderloin and mince have also dropped back slightly year on year. However, with the current hot weather and two bank holidays in quick succession I do expect demand for these lines to increase as households look to the barbecue for meal occasions.”

The AIMS report underscores the sustained pressure on household budgets due to escalating meat prices, particularly for beef and lamb. While chicken legs and certain pork cuts offer some respite, the overall trend indicates that meat price inflation remains a significant concern for consumers. The anticipated increase in demand for barbecue staples due to the upcoming warm weather and bank holidays could further influence prices in the short term.

FSA Boosts Powers to Crack Down on Food Fraud

Food Crime Unit Granted New Powers to Combat Food Fraud in England and Wales

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced that the National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) now has expanded investigatory powers to tackle food fraud more effectively across England and Wales, effective from May 2, 2025.

These powers, granted under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), allow the NFCU to operate with greater independence in the fight against serious food crime.

Key New Powers for the National Food Crime Unit

Under the new regulations, NFCU investigators can now:

Apply for and execute search warrants independently, without relying on local police forces.
Access and secure premises where food crime is suspected, enabling timely evidence gathering and prevention of material destruction.

These powers represent a significant step forward in allowing the NFCU to respond swiftly to food crime intelligence and progress investigations more efficiently.

“This is a major step forward in protecting the integrity of the UK food supply chain,” said a spokesperson for the FSA.

Why These Powers Matter

The NFCU was formed in 2015 following the Elliot Review into the 2013 horse meat scandal, with a mission to prevent, detect, and disrupt serious criminal activity in food supply chains. Until now, the unit had to depend on police and other agencies to carry out certain enforcement actions.

Benefits of the new powers include:

Faster and more effective investigations into food crime.
Greater consumer protection and support for legitimate food businesses.
Reduced pressure on police resources, enabling them to focus on other priorities.

What Is Food Crime?

The FSA defines food crime as serious fraud involving the production, processing, distribution, or sale of food. Examples include:

Adulteration – adding inferior or undeclared ingredients to food.
Substitution – replacing quality ingredients with cheaper alternatives.
Misrepresentation – false labelling or misleading claims about origin or quality.
Use of stolen food – introducing stolen items into the supply chain.
Illegal processing – operating outside of regulated slaughter or production rules.
Waste diversion – reintroducing food waste into the supply chain illegally.
Document fraud – falsifying records or traceability data.

How to Report Food Crime

The FSA urges members of the public and food industry professionals to report any suspicions to Food Crime Confidential:

Phone (UK): 0800 028 1180
Phone (International): +44 207 276 8787
Online: Visit the FSA website

Strengthening Trust in the UK Food Chain

These enhanced powers mark a significant milestone in the UK’s food safety landscape. By empowering the NFCU to act independently, the FSA aims to further protect consumers, safeguard businesses, and ensure that the UK’s food supply chain remains trustworthy and transparent.

Original source: Food Standards Agency (FSA)

Russian Turkey Exports Soar, Dominating Chinese Market

Russia’s turkey meat exports are experiencing significant growth, fueled by a surge in sales to China where Russian producers have proven highly competitive. Anatoly Velmatov, executive director of the National Association of Turkey Producers, announced at an industry conference in Moscow that Russia’s turkey exports, estimated at 27,000 tonnes in 2024, are projected to reach 35,000 tonnes in 2025 and a substantial 60,000 tonnes by 2030.

China has become a key destination for Russian turkey, absorbing approximately 60% of the export volume. According to Velmatov, Russian firms have successfully gained market share in China, effectively displacing major competitors. “In fact,” he stated, “we have ousted large suppliers from this market: the US and South America.” Exports are anticipated to remain a primary driver of growth for the Russian turkey industry.

In 2024, Russian turkey production reached 438,000 tonnes, marking a 3.8% increase compared to the previous year. Projections for 2025 indicate a further 6% rise in output, reaching 465,000 tonnes. The National Association of Turkey Producers has set an ambitious goal of increasing the export share to 10% of total turkey meat production.

Despite this positive trajectory, Velmatov highlighted several challenges facing the Russian turkey industry. A worsening bird flu situation and a decline in consumption in key sales markets pose significant risks. “In addition, we also see risks associated with a decrease in overall meat consumption. For example, Europe is already seeing the negative dynamics of the consumption of all types of meat. In addition, meat often becomes less affordable for consumers,” Velmatov noted.

Original story: Poultry World

Tight Beef Supply Sees Deadweight Prices Surging

Soaring Beef Prices Expected to Breach £7/kg as Supplies Tighten

Cattle deadweight prices in the UK are experiencing a dramatic surge, with a near 40% increase recorded in just nine months, according to Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), Wales’s red meat levy body. The organisation forecasts that this upward trend will imminently see beef prices break the £7 per kilogram threshold, with weekly increases becoming the norm.

HCC attributes this significant price hike to tight beef supplies both domestically and across international markets. The situation is not isolated to the UK, with supply constraints being felt throughout Europe.

Glesni Phillips, HCC’s intelligence, analysis and business insight executive, highlighted the scale of the price surge. “Prime cattle deadweight prices in England and Wales have risen dramatically since late 2024 and are now £2/kg higher than the same period last year,” she stated.

Historical records have already been broken, with the average steer deadweight price surpassing £5/kg in September 2024 and reaching £6/kg by February 2025. Ms. Phillips predicts that “given the current trends, could hit £7/kg by late spring.”

The tightening supply across the European Union is also playing a role in the price dynamics. “EU beef prices have recently climbed more rapidly than here, narrowing the typical price gap to around 94.8p/kg for steers as of March, which could enhance UK export competitiveness,” Ms. Phillips explained. However, she cautioned that “although rising prices in Ireland will likely mean higher import prices domestically.”

The combination of reduced domestic availability and increasing prices in key European markets suggests that the strong beef prices are likely to persist in the near future. This situation presents both opportunities and challenges for the UK beef industry, potentially boosting export prospects while also increasing costs for domestic consumers and businesses relying on beef supplies.

Original story: Farmers Weekly

Red Tractor Seeks Feedback on Welfare Standards Changes

Red Tractor Launches Consultation on Tiered Welfare Standards for UK Pork

Red Tractor, the UK’s leading food assurance scheme, has opened a six-week consultation to gather feedback from pig producers on a proposed tiered welfare labelling system for UK pigmeat. The initiative aims to improve transparency for consumers, reduce audit burdens for farmers, and raise awareness of higher-welfare pork production.

Proposed Welfare Tiers for UK Pigmeat

Building on the success of the poultry tiering system introduced in 2020, Red Tractor’s new proposal introduces two voluntary welfare tiers for the British pig sector:

Enhanced Welfare Tier: Covers pork from pigs that are either outdoor-bred or outdoor-reared, and finished indoors with extra space and a solid, bedded lying area.
Free Range Tier: Applies to pork from pigs with continuous outdoor access throughout their lives.

Each tier will feature its own distinct Red Tractor label, helping consumers easily identify different welfare standards while maintaining the integrity of the core Red Tractor assurance.

Updates to Existing Standards

Alongside the new tiers, Red Tractor is also proposing minor updates to current pig welfare standards. These adjustments aim to align the scheme with other assurance programmes and reflect industry best practices. Changes will only be implemented with the support of the UK pig farming community.

Industry Backing and Long-Term Vision

Stewart Houston, Chair of the Red Tractor Pigs Sector Board, emphasised the benefits of the proposed tiered labelling system:

“This would offer a clearer, simpler way for members to communicate their welfare credentials. It empowers consumers to make more informed buying decisions and aligns existing pork welfare tiers under the Red Tractor brand.”

Houston highlighted that many pig producers already meet these proposed standards. The new labelling structure would help streamline compliance, reducing costs associated with audits and licensing.

Looking ahead, Red Tractor is also considering a ‘Certified Standards Plus’ tier focused on flexible farrowing systems, which provide reduced confinement for sows. This forward-thinking tier would allow the industry to proactively improve animal welfare without the need for restrictive legislation.

“This approach shows industry leadership, offering practical solutions that keep pace with evolving market expectations and societal concerns,” Houston added.

Original source: Farming UK

Smithfield Foods Shifts Focus Amid Tariff Challenges

Smithfield Foods Shifts Focus Amid Tariff Challenges

Smithfield Foods, the leading U.S. pork processor, has announced that China is no longer a viable market due to retaliatory tariffs imposed by Beijing. This development highlights the ongoing impact of the tariff war initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which has significantly disrupted global trade.

Tariff Impact

China, the world’s largest pork consumer, increased its levies on U.S. goods, pushing the effective duty rate on U.S. pork to 172%[1]. This move was in response to higher duties imposed by the U.S. on Chinese imports. As a result, Smithfield Foods has had to pivot its business strategy.

Business Pivot

Smithfield CEO Shane Smith stated on a recent earnings call, “With China no longer essentially being available, we really had to pivot our business” [1]. The company, which went public in January, reported a 9.5% rise in total sales to $3.77 billion for the first quarter ending March 30, surpassing analysts’ expectations [1].

Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, Smithfield remains optimistic about finding new markets for its products. The company is focusing on other international markets and increasing sales of more profitable products like lunch meats and dry sausages [2]. This strategic shift aims to mitigate the impact of losing access to the Chinese market.

Smithfield’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial as it navigates the complexities of global trade and continues to support U.S. farmers.

Original story: Reuters

References

[1] Smithfield Foods Says Tariffs Make China Unviable Market for its U.S. Pork

[2] Tariffs Mean Pork Producer Smithfield Has Had to ‘Pivot … – Investopedia

FSA Steps Up Efforts to Modernise Meat Regulation

UK Food Standards Agency Modernises Meat Industry Regulations

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) is rolling out several initiatives to modernise its regulatory approach to the meat industry, which contributes £10 billion annually to the UK economy. These efforts aim to uphold high food safety standards and improve efficiency amid growing challenges.

Key Projects and Innovations

One major project is the development of an online self-service portal, currently in testing. This platform will allow meat businesses to access plant-specific data, including inspection results and approvals, in real time, simplifying operations and enhancing regulatory processes. Additionally, the FSA has trialled technology to transfer post-mortem inspection data directly from business systems to the agency, reducing manual intervention and boosting efficiency.

The FSA is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve meat inspection processes. AI tools could detect contamination not visible to the human eye, although these inspections are not yet legally permitted. The FSA views AI as a potential future solution.

International and Domestic Efforts

Internationally, the FSA is advising the UK government on upcoming negotiations with the EU regarding sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls for food exports. The aim is to streamline processes while maintaining high food safety standards and ensuring UK exporters remain competitive.

Domestically, the FSA is addressing a shortage of trained official veterinarians, crucial for meat inspection. Despite efforts to recruit more meat hygiene inspectors, the number of UK-trained veterinarians remains insufficient. The FSA has increasingly relied on veterinarians from other countries, but rising post-Brexit recruitment and visa costs have made this less viable long-term.

Regulatory Costs and Legal Actions

In response to rising regulatory costs, the FSA has announced higher inspection charges for 2025–2026, prompting legal action from some industry groups. The FSA is also reviewing its discount scheme for small businesses, which currently offers significant cost reductions. The outcome of this review will depend on government spending assessments.

Strengthening the National Food Crime Unit

The FSA is enhancing its National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) by granting it new powers to apply for warrants and seize evidence. This will enable the unit to combat food-related crime in complex supply chains more effectively. Recent successes include prosecuting individuals involved in large-scale poultry fraud and falsification of testing certificates.

These initiatives reflect the FSA’s commitment to maintaining high food safety standards and supporting the meat industry’s efficiency and competitiveness in a challenging environment.

Original story: Food & Drink Int

Licence Revoked from Abattoir After Shocking Welfare Violations

Warwickshire Abattoir Loses Licence Following Animal Welfare Investigation

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has revoked the operating licence of T&S Abattoir in Arley, Warwickshire, following a thorough investigation into significant animal welfare breaches. The decision comes after covert footage, captured by an animal rights activist last year, surfaced in February, corroborating earlier concerns raised by local residents who had been advocating for the facility’s closure.

While the FSA confirmed that “substantial” action had already been taken at the abattoir prior to the emergence of the footage, the subsequent investigation by an independent panel concluded that T&S Abattoir had failed to prevent serious incidents compromising animal welfare. The FSA stated that this lack of confidence in the abattoir’s ability to ensure “consistent compliance” with animal welfare standards led to the licence revocation.

A spokesperson for the FSA emphasized the seriousness of the findings, stating that the identified breaches would be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service for potential legal action.

In a statement released today, the FSA confirmed that T&S Abattoir Ltd, the operating company, has been formally notified of the licence revocation, along with the detailed reasons for the decision and their right to appeal the ruling.

The FSA also highlighted its ongoing collaboration with other relevant authorities. “We are continuing to work with the police who are carrying out their own investigation, as well as the local authority whose responsibilities include enforcing regulations on any environmental impact and any unapproved activities,” the statement read.

Reiterating its commitment to animal welfare, the FSA asserted a firm stance on the issue. “We have a zero-tolerance approach to animal welfare breaches so we will always take the necessary action to protect high animal welfare standards.”

The BBC has reached out to T&S Abattoir Ltd for comment but has yet to receive a response.

This development marks a significant step following long-standing concerns about animal welfare practices at the Arley-based abattoir and underscores the FSA’s commitment to upholding standards within the food industry. The outcome of the police investigation and any potential appeal by T&S Abattoir Ltd will be closely watched.

Original story: BBC News

Great British Beef Week Back for 15th Year

Great British Beef Week, a successful industry campaign that promotes British beef to consumers, returns for its 15th anniversary on St George’s Day, 23 April.

This nationwide campaign, running from 23-30 April, highlights the hard work and dedication of the farmers who produce British beef, while also shining a light on sustainable farming practices and the exceptional taste of British beef.

The campaign was first founded by the Ladies in Beef group, created by former NFU president Minette Batters and Devon beef producer Jilly Greed. Over the years, it has garnered support from various UK levy bodies including AHDB, Hybu Cig Cymru, the Livestock and Meat Commission, and Quality Meat Scotland. Additionally, organizations such as the NFU, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution, and Red Tractor have lent their support to the campaign.

As part of this year’s campaign, AHDB is putting the faces behind British beef farming at the heart of the initiative. Baroness Minette Batters emphasized the importance of British beef, stating, “Our farmers produce naturally delicious beef – British beef is not just a staple of our cuisine, it’s a symbol of our hard work and enjoyed by many at home and abroad.”

The campaign aims to celebrate the contributions of British farmers and encourage consumers to appreciate and support locally produced beef. With its focus on sustainability and quality, Great British Beef Week continues to be a significant event in the UK’s agricultural calendar.