Worldwide exports of beef from the UK are up almost 40 per cent from January to June 2011 compared to the same period last year, new data from HMRC reveal, with a total 67,348 tonnes of fresh and frozen beef sold to other countries.

The data, released yesterday, reveals lamb exports, already strong in recent years at around 30 per cent of production, have risen by an additional 5.8 per cent worldwide, to 41,296 tonnes. In terms of value, beef exports are up 33 per cent and lamb 13 per cent. In comparison, imports of beef are down 2.69 per cent and sheep meat 18 per cent by volume.

“The latest figures are more good news for the English beef and sheep meat sector and continue the general upward trend we have seen for exports since restrictions were lifted in 2006,” said Peter Hardwick, EBLEX head of trade development, “The work to open additional export markets continues and is reaping benefits as more countries are able to import quality beef and lamb from England. Ultimately, this will help support a sustainable price for our domestic producers and processors.”