British Dairy and Red Meat Exports to North America Poised for Growth

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has highlighted North America as a key growth market for British dairy and red meat exports. According to their latest analysis, cheese consumption in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is expected to increase by 11% by 2034. This presents a significant opportunity for British artisanal cheeses and premium red meats, which are gaining popularity as high-quality products among North American consumers.

British cheese, particularly territorial varieties like Stilton and Cheddar, is being positioned as a premium value product in this growing market. Lucy Randolph, head of international trade development for dairy at AHDB, noted that the United States already ranks as the UK's second-largest market for dairy exports. She emphasized the importance of events such as the recent British Cheese Night in San Diego, which showcase British produce to key industry buyers.

The red meat sector is also set for expansion, supported by favorable trade conditions. The Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD) allows British exporters to ship 13,000 tonnes of beef to the US tariff-free. Additionally, consumption of lamb and mutton in the US is anticipated to grow by 1% over the next decade, offering further opportunities for quality British meats.

Mexico represents another developing market, with projected increases in pork and beef consumption. This provides UK processors with opportunities to diversify their export portfolios. Jonathan Eckley, AHDB's international trade development director, stressed the importance of heritage and provenance as key selling points for British products in these markets.

To capitalize on these insights, AHDB is ramping up its activities in North America. A recent trade mission to San Diego involved 13 British dairy exporters meeting with 130 high-level industry buyers, aiming to strengthen the UK's presence in North American retail and foodservice sectors.