British exports of fresh and frozen beef increased by 17% in October, reaching a total of 9,692 tonnes, but year-on-year volumes were still 4% below 2022 levels. These export increases were driven by higher demand from countries like Ireland, France, and the Netherlands, as well as non-EU destinations like Hong Kong, likely due to seasonal movement and Christmas period purchases. Additionally, British beef imports for October 2023 amounted to 19,638 tonnes, 7% less year-on-year but 7% more than in September, with some shortages in the domestic supply chain likely boosting import growth to meet year-end seasonal demand.
Overall, export volumes remained below 2022 levels, likely limited by lower production and strong British cattle prices, while import volumes were also below previous years but saw a slight increase compared to September.