October 23, 2019

 

China finalises deal to resume UK beef imports following two-decade ban

 

 

For the first time in over two decades, farmers and beef producers in United Kingdom could soon enjoy full access to China's market as the Chinese government finalises details of a historic UK-China agreement.

 

The announcement of the breakthrough was made on October 18 and came after Chinese authorities conducted extensive inspections and confirmed that UK beef producers fulfilled the required standards for export.

 

The conclusion of the deal could provide a  £230 million (US$296 million) boost to the UK beef sector. It also signals the end of ban imposed by China following a BSE outbreak in 1996.

 

In the first round, Chinese inspectors have cleared four beef sites for export. The initial batch of exports are likely to be shipped in the next few months.

 

"Sealing this landmark agreement with China is huge news for our world-renowned food and farming industry, meaning more people across the globe can enjoy British beef, said UK Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers.

 

"Today's milestone marks another step towards unlocking the industry's full potential, and reflects our ambition to maximise trading opportunities for British produce across the world as the UK leaves the EU."

 

"This is another step forward in realising our global trading ambitions with unbeatable British food," said International Trade Secretary Liz Truss.

 

"As we leave the European Union, we will continue to break down market access barriers to make it easier for UK businesses to trade across the world."

 

China's ban on UK beef was abrogated in June 2018, when market access engagement for UK beef exports started.

 

The announcement follows China's recent approval of five UK pork facilities to export products to China.

 

- BLMEastMidlands