Celebrating Success: Welsh Lamb Exports Surge Post-Brexit

In the wake of Brexit, the Welsh lamb industry has reason to celebrate as it continues to experience remarkable growth in both volume and value of exports. Recent data from HMRC has unveiled impressive double-digit increases, marking a significant boon for the Welsh economy.

According to the figures, sheep meat exports from Wales surged by 12%, reaching nearly 30,500 tonnes in volume, while the total value soared to £190.9 million, a commendable 10% increase. This positive trajectory has been attributed to increased shipments to the EU, with fresh and frozen sheep meat exports witnessing a notable uptick of approximately 13%.

Laura Pickup, Head of Strategic Marketing and Connections at Hybu Cig Cymru - Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), expressed her delight at the substantial growth, emphasising the crucial role played by the export team. "It's great news and really pleasing to see that, post-Brexit, increased shipments to the EU drove this very welcome lift in volumes and value," Pickup remarked.

Key European markets such as France and Germany continued to receive significant quantities of Welsh sheep meat, with notable increases also observed in exports to the Netherlands and Italy. Pickup particularly highlighted Italy's remarkable surge, which witnessed an impressive near 40% rise in imports from Wales.

Despite firm farmgate prices, Welsh lamb remains competitive in the global marketplace, ensuring sustained demand and profitability for local producers. The positive momentum extended beyond lamb, with the total value of red meat exports from Wales reaching £267.9 million in 2023, representing a 4.1% increase from the previous year.

However, amidst the celebrations, concerns loom over the potential challenges that could impede future growth in the UK sheep market. The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has issued warnings about bureaucratic hurdles that could hinder overall sheep exports from the UK, particularly to the EU.

Nan Jones, Technical Policy Manager at BMPA, stressed the importance of maintaining smooth trade relations with the EU, considering its pivotal role as a major market for UK sheep products. Jones cautioned against drastic deviations from EU regulations, which could adversely impact export status and market access.

As the landscape of international trade evolves post-Brexit, stakeholders in the UK sheep industry, including policymakers, are urged to navigate these changes diligently. Jones underscored the necessity for a nuanced understanding of the food supply chain and its implications on farmers, processors, and consumers alike.

While Welsh lamb celebrates its success in the global market, vigilance and adaptability will be crucial in safeguarding and furthering the interests of the UK sheep industry amidst evolving trade dynamics.