February 15, 2012

The latest figures reveal that because of excellent seasonal conditions, lamb and beef production in Wales increased during 2011.

Total sheep slaughtering in Wales in 2011 stood at 3.8 million, 5% higher than the previous year, according to Defra figures released by Welsh red meat promotion agency Hybu Cig Cymru.

Beef production in Wales was up at 158,000 head, 8% higher than in 2010, while pork production increased by 6% to 37,000 head.

John Richards, HCC's industry information officer, said: "Excellent seasonal conditions contributed to increased sheep production during 2011 and the record prices recorded for much of the year encouraged marketing of stock."

The breeding flock is expected to expand as a result of increased ewe lamb retention, he said.

Lamb prices across Britain averaged GBP1.933 (US$3.04) per kilogramme in 2011, an increase of almost GBP0.20 (US$0.31) per kilogramme or 11%. And in the UK as a whole, total red meat production in 2011 was almost 5% higher, hitting 2.03 million tonnes.

In the beef sector, carcase weights were down by 1% for both prime cattle and cull cows but production was up due to an increase in slaughtering.

Meanwhile, Welsh Lamb will again take centre stage at the Middle East's largest food trade show. Gulfood is the biggest trade event in the region, attracting more than 60,000 visitors to the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from Sunday to Wednesday.

Welsh Lamb has been on sale in the United Arab Emirates since 2007 and has established itself as a favourite premium product. HCC will be at Gulfood in the Welsh Government's Wales the True Taste Pavilion.

HCC's marketing manager Laura Dodds said: "Exports play a key role in the success of the Welsh Lamb brand. They account for about a third of all Welsh Lamb sales, with demand increasing not only in our traditional European markets but also in Canada and the Far East."