December 24, 2007

UK works to regain meat export markets outside EU

A joint programme targeting 24 countries has been drawn up by the British Pig Executive (BPEX), the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX) and DEFRA to regain export markets worth US$100 million a year.

These pork markets outside EU have been lost during bans on foot and mouth outbreaks.

Though almost all restrictions on trade within the EU have been lifted, the UK will not automatically regain its all-important OIE (Office International des Epizooties) FMD-free status recognised by third countries until January 2008.

Negotiations are usually required with individual countries to reinstate health certificates for meat and livestock.

BPEX and EBLEX Export Manager Jean-Pierre Garnier said UK is launching a concerted and ambitious third countries export recovery programme in key markets.

Garnier also pointed that they have been working closely with DEFRA veterinarians and officials on this project, which will include meetings with officials in the 24 targeted countries, including an intensive programme in the Far East.

The campaign gained momentum earlier this week through a meeting with agricultural attaches from 14 countries to pave the way for the missions and the re-certification process.