Bord Bia Chairman Withstands Resignation Calls Over Brazilian Beef Imports

The chairman of Bord Bia has withstood calls to resign following controversy surrounding imports of Brazilian beef by his company, Dawn Farms.

According to reporting by The Irish Times, Larry Murrin retained the backing of both the Bord Bia board and the Irish Minister for Agriculture, despite strong criticism from farming organisations. The dispute centres on Dawn Farms’ confirmation that around 1% of its beef supply in 2025 originated from Brazil, at a time when many Irish farmers are actively opposing the EU–Mercosur trade agreement.

Farming groups have argued that the imports represent a conflict of interest, undermining Bord Bia’s role in promoting Irish produce abroad. Government representatives, however, have stated that due process will be followed, and that governance procedures are being respected.

The episode has intensified debate within Ireland’s agri-food sector over credibility, governance and the balance between commercial sourcing decisions and public policy positioning, particularly as Mercosur remains politically sensitive.

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Source: The Irish Times | 22 January 2026

EU–Mercosur Deal Could Take Provisional Effect From March

The long-awaited EU–Mercosur trade agreement could begin applying provisionally as early as March, according to an EU diplomat cited in recent reporting. This is part of ongoing discussions about the EU Mercosur deal provisional effect and its expected timeline.

Speaking to Reuters, the official said provisional application would allow key elements of the deal to take effect before full ratification by all EU member states and the European Parliament. This approach is commonly used for large trade agreements to accelerate implementation while political processes continue.

The deal, negotiated between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc — which includes Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay — has faced strong opposition from farming groups in several EU countries. Critics have raised concerns over beef imports, environmental standards and competitive pressure on domestic agriculture.

Supporters argue that provisional implementation would provide businesses with earlier access to tariff reductions and market opportunities, while political debate continues around safeguards and sustainability commitments.

If enacted, provisional application would mark a significant step forward for one of the world’s largest trade agreements, with potential implications for beef, poultry, sugar and ethanol trade flows between South America and Europe.

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Source: Reuters | 22 January 2026

Australian Beef Exports Break New Ground in 2025

Australia’s beef export sector delivered a standout performance in 2025, achieving record or near-record outcomes across multiple international markets. This happened as global demand strengthened and supply constraints eased.

According to new analysis from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), Australian beef exports benefited from expanded market access and improved production conditions. There was also strong demand from key destinations, particularly in Asia, the Middle East and North America.

MLA said 2025 marked a year of diversification and resilience, with growth recorded across both traditional high-volume markets and emerging destinations. Furthermore, the performance reflects Australia’s ability to supply a wide range of beef products. These range from premium grain-fed cuts to manufacturing beef. This supported carcase balance and export value.

The results come amid tightening beef supply in several competing exporting regions, reinforcing Australia’s role as a reliable global supplier. MLA noted that export momentum is expected to continue into 2026. This will be supported by herd rebuilding, trade stability and sustained international demand.

Source: Meat & Livestock Australia | 22 January 2026

AHDB Expands Export Team to Support Red Meat Trade in Asia and Africa

Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has strengthened its international capability with the appointment of Henry Glover as Senior Trade Development Manager, boosting support for British red meat exports across Asia and Africa.

AHDB said Glover brings more than six years’ experience in the red meat processing sector, adding practical commercial insight to its export development work. His role will focus on helping exporters identify opportunities, navigate market access challenges and build long-term demand in high-growth regions.

Jonathan Eckley, AHDB’s International Trade Development Director, said the appointment underlines the organisation’s commitment to maximising global opportunities for British red meat, particularly as exporters look beyond traditional European markets.

The move reflects AHDB’s wider strategy to support market diversification, at a time when global demand patterns, trade policy and disease status continue to reshape international protein flows.

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Source: AHDB | 21 January 2026

NFU Raises Concerns Over Extended Tariff Free Access for Ukrainian Poultry

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has raised strong concerns over the UK government’s decision to extend tariff-free access for Ukrainian poultry and eggs by a further two years, warning of potential harm to domestic producers.

The measure will remain in place until March 2028, continuing preferential access introduced in response to the war in Ukraine. While the NFU supports aid for Ukraine, it argues that prolonged tariff-free imports risk undermining UK poultry and egg producers already facing high feed, energy and labour costs.

The union also highlighted ongoing avian influenza pressures, which have increased costs and disrupted production across the UK poultry sector. NFU representatives warned that continued import liberalisation without safeguards could weaken domestic supply resilience and discourage investment.

The issue underscores the growing tension between trade policy, geopolitical support measures and domestic food security, as UK producers seek assurance that temporary trade arrangements do not become long-term structural disadvantages.

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Source: NFUonline | 21 January 2026

MLA Launches Rare Medium 2026 to Shape Future of Red Meat on Australian Menus

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has launched Rare Medium 2026, its latest long-term foodservice trends report. This is designed to guide how red meat will feature on Australian menus over the next decade.

According to Meat & Livestock Australia, the report draws on extensive consumer research, chef insights and global dining trends. As a result, it helps producers, processors and foodservice operators adapt red meat offerings to changing expectations.

Key themes highlighted include:

Growing demand for premium, provenance-led beef and lamb

Increased focus on sustainability, nose-to-tail utilisation and value-led cuts

The influence of global flavours and multicultural dining

A shift towards flexitarian menus, where red meat is eaten less frequently but with higher quality expectations

MLA said Rare Medium 2026 is intended to support the entire red meat supply chain. It does this by aligning production and product development with how consumers actually choose meals, rather than focusing solely on volume growth.

The report positions red meat as a hero ingredient when executed well. It suggests that future success lies in storytelling, eating experience and menu relevance rather than price competition alone.

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Source: Meat & Livestock Australia | January 2026

New Zealand Red Meat Exports to UK Soar Under Free Trade Agreement

New Zealand red meat exports to the UK have surged in the second year of the UK–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with lamb and beef recording sharp growth as trade flows adjust to the post-Brexit landscape.

According to reporting by The Press, New Zealand’s primary industry exports to the UK rose by 25% year-on-year, led by strong demand for sheep meat, beef and dairy products.

The value of sheep meat exports to the UK increased by 37% to NZ$492 million, while beef exports have risen by around 800% since the FTA came into force, albeit from a relatively low base. Industry figures say the UK has rapidly become one of New Zealand’s most valuable premium red meat destinations.

Exporters cited tariff liberalisation, improved market access and resilient UK demand as key drivers of growth. The FTA progressively removes quotas and tariffs on New Zealand red meat, reshaping competitive dynamics in the UK protein market.

UK farming groups have repeatedly warned that increased access for New Zealand beef and lamb could place pressure on domestic producers over time, particularly if imports rise during periods of tight local supply. However, New Zealand exporters argue that shipments remain seasonal and complementary, rather than directly displacing UK production.

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Source: The Press (NZ) | 21 January 2026

China Lifts Ban on Canadian Beef, Reopening Key Export Market

China has officially lifted its ban on Canadian beef. This reopens a major export market that had been closed since an atypical BSE case was identified in Canada in December 2021.

The decision restores access to what was previously Canada’s fourth-largest beef export destination. The move is expected to support Canadian processors seeking to rebalance exports toward Asia.

However, exporters face important constraints. Canadian beef entering China will be subject to significant tariffs. It must also compete within a general import quota. This places it alongside other global suppliers rather than under preferential access. Industry representatives note that while the reopening is strategically positive, commercial volumes may ramp up gradually.

The decision underscores China’s continued use of BSE risk management and market controls in shaping beef imports. Additionally, it comes as Asian demand remains a key outlet for higher-value cuts and carcase balance for exporting nations.

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Source: CBC News | 20 January 2026

Report Warns of Threats to Welsh Red Meat Industry Viability

A Senedd committee has warned that falling livestock numbers in Wales risk undermining the long-term viability of the Welsh red meat industry, unless stronger policy intervention is delivered.

According to reporting by Business News Wales, the report highlights sustained declines in cattle and sheep numbers as a critical threat to processing capacity, rural employment and supply-chain resilience. Without sufficient throughput, the committee cautions that processors could face rising unit costs and reduced competitiveness.

The report calls for more decisive government action to support the food processing sector, including targeted incentives to stabilise livestock supply. Among the measures suggested is a suckler calf premium, aimed at encouraging the production of higher-quality beef and maintaining critical mass within the sector.

Committee members stressed that improving self-reliance in Welsh food production should be a strategic priority, particularly as global supply chains face increasing volatility. The findings add to wider concerns across the UK about herd and flock contraction and its implications for domestic red meat supply.

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Source: Business News Wales | 20 January 2026