UK pork imports and exports fell in the first half of 2023

UK pork exports in June 2023 reached 24,200 tons, a slight increase of 200 tons compared to May 2023 but down 15% (or down 4,400 tons) compared to June 2022. In general, the first half of 2023 exports reached 151,800 tons – the lowest level since 2015. In the first six months of 2023, exports of all pork products decreased year-on-year, with the exception of processed pork, which increased by 1,000 tons. Fresh and frozen pork exports both fell sharply, reaching their lowest level since 2010, totaling 64,000 tons, down nearly 43,000 tons (down 40%) year-on-year. A sharp drop in domestic production is responsible for the drop in exports, which, combined with rising pork prices, has reduced the competitiveness of UK pork. Exports of offal, bacon and sausage decreased slightly by 1,900 tons, 1,000 tons and 500 tons, respectively. Pork exports to the EU and major countries decreased sharply compared to the same period last year, down 26% (-23,400 tons) and 39% (-18,300 tons) ...