Opportunities to beef up British red meat exports to Canada have come under the spotlight at a major international event.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) international trade development team has this week (April 29 to May 1) been showcasing British beef, lamb and pork at SIAL Canada in Toronto.

SIAL in Toronto was due to attract more than 1,000 exhibitors from 44 countries and 21,000 professional visitors from Canada, the US and more than 70 other countries. Visitors to the AHDB stand have had the chance to sample beef and lamb dishes and learn more about specific cuts courtesy of a butchery demonstration by AHDB Trade Butchery Manager Martin Eccles.

To coincide with the trade show, AHDB also took part in a Four Nations Celebration dinner on April 30, organised by the Department for Business and Trade for Canadian food and drink stakeholders.

The value and volume of UK beef and pig meat exports to Canada both saw increases in 2024. Beef export volumes increased 252% on the year to 7,385 tonnes worth £26 million – an increase of 156% in value on the year. Pig meat volumes to Canada increase 10% to 1,138 tonnes with a value of £5 million – up 112% on the year.

Susana Morris, AHDB Senior Trade Development Manager, said: "While sheep meat exports to Canada last year were challenging, shipments of beef and pig meat were very encouraging. In 2024 Canada was our second biggest export market for beef and the fifth biggest market for pig meat, highlighting its importance to the red meat industry.

"Maintaining a wide portfolio of markets for our world class produce is essential in helping add value to our red meat sector. While we are mindful of wider geopolitical pressures that may affect the Canadian market, we are looking to build on last year's performance, working with industry and UK Government to help ensure our produce flourishes on the global stage.

"Taking part in international trade shows forms a major part of AHDB's international trade development work. SIAL Canada not only provides us with an ideal platform to highlight what we have to offer but also enables our export businesses to connect with existing customers and potential new ones to develop further opportunities for our red meat sector."

Further details about export opportunities for British red meat and dairy can be found in the AHDB analysis Prospects for UK agri-food exports.