UK's pork exports in the first half of 2024 are the lowest in 9 years

The UK has experienced a decline in pig meat exports in the first half of 2024, with a 2.4% decrease compared to the same period in 2023, hitting the lowest level since 2015 at 148,200 tonnes. This decline is primarily due to a drop in fresh/frozen and bacon exports. However, there has been a 4% increase in exports in June compared to the previous year. Import volumes have grown by 1.4% in the first half of 2024, reaching 387,500 tonnes, with sausages showing the largest year-on-year increase. The UK's pig meat market has seen a decrease in volume sales at the retail level, although foodservice relies more heavily on imports. Factors such as price inflation, exchange rates, and economic indicators will influence future import demand. The Association of Heading Butchers and Meat Wholesalers (AHDB) is focusing on finding greater market access for UK products to maintain carcass balance and value in the face of increasing geopolitical tensions and to meet demand challenges domestically and globally.