UK beef and pigmeat exports to Canada saw a significant rise in both volume and value in 2024.
This reinforces Canada’s growing importance as a trading partner for British meat producers.
252% year-on-year growth in beef sales
According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), beef exports to Canada soared by 252% year-on-year, reaching 7,385 tonnes with a total value of £26 million. This marks a 156% increase in value and places Canada as the UK’s second-largest export market for beef.
The pigmeat sector also recorded notable gains, with export volumes rising 10% to 1,138 tonnes. The value of these exports more than doubled, climbing 112% to reach £5 million. Canada is now the fifth-biggest market for UK pigmeat exports.
Diversifying destinations has built resilience
Trade experts attribute the growth to strong demand for British red meat and successful trade development efforts to broaden the UK’s global market base. By diversifying destinations for high-quality UK meat products, exporters have been able to build resilience against market volatility and changing international dynamics.
Susana Morris, senior trade development manager at AHDB, said “maintaining access to a wide range of overseas markets is vital to delivering long-term value for the UK red meat sector.”
The surge in Canadian exports demonstrates the impact of ongoing promotion and the importance of aligning with international standards.
UK strengthening trade ties with non-EU partners post Brexit
The Canadian market’s expansion comes at a time when the UK industry is seeking to strengthen ties with trading partners outside the EU, following Brexit. Access to global markets is seen as a key factor in ensuring the competitiveness and sustainability of the domestic livestock sector.
As the UK continues to promote its agricultural exports, industry leaders are optimistic that strategic international relationships – like that with Canada – will play a central role in future trade growth.
