August 13, 2013

Germany's meat exports to Russia, particularly for beef and poultry meat, have declined sharply during the first five months of 2013 on-year.

Compared to the first five months of 2012, German beef and poultry meat exports are down by 62% and 70%, respectively, according to the German meat association, VDF. Exports of chilled beef have come to a halt between March and May.

Total pork exports in 2012 were already down by 24% and a further 21% reduction was recorded for the period between January and March 2013.

VDF states the main reason for these developments is the long-term tightening in Russian veterinary measures, which have resulted in a complete ban on fresh, chilled meat imports since February 2013.

In June, the Russian veterinary service banned nine more meat delivery companies from exporting to Russia. As a result, further reductions in meat exports from July are anticipated.