February 21, 2014

UK 2013 sheep meat exports up 9% on-year

For the first time since 1999, UK's 2013 sheep meat exports broke the 100,000-tonne barrier, according to English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX).

UK export figures for from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) revealed that total shipments of fresh and frozen sheep meat last year reached 103,176 tonnes, up 9% on-year, with growth in both EU and non-EU markets.

Exports to non-EU markets experienced the most significant increases on-year, with the volume up 44% at 17,637 tonnes. The value of exports to non-EU markets increased 36% on-year.

Hong Kong was the leading non-EU export market, with the volume of shipments from the UK up 78% at 13,062 tonnes, while the value rose 105%. Volumes to Ghana, where EBLEX last autumn conducted a trade mission with a group of UK exporters, were up 134% on-year at just over 1,000 tonnes, with the value of those exports increasing 95%.

Jonathan Eckley, EBLEX export marketing executive, said: "Scandinavia is another high-value market, with Norway being the notable success story in 2013. Shipments to Norway were up 25%, with the value of those rising 31%. Volumes to Denmark also increased 50%, with a 44% rise in value. However, it's important not to overlook the continuing importance and significance of EU export markets. France remains, by far, our major export destination for sheep meat. Shipments to France, representing 53,814 tonnes, were up 3% on-year, while shipments to Germany and Belgium also recorded higher volumes. The overall export story for sheep meat in 2013 was very positive and we will continue to look to develop existing markets and help cultivate new ones as we move forwards this year."