The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has pinpointed substantial export growth opportunities for UK dairy and red meat sectors in North America, with cheese consumption projected to rise by 11% by 2034. British cheeses and premium meats are set to meet the growing demand for high-quality, provenance-rich products in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
The AHDB’s latest “Prospects for UK agri-food exports” report positions North America as a key target for the UK’s dairy sector. With anticipated double-digit growth in cheese consumption, British staples like Stilton and Cheddar are gaining recognition as premium products. Lucy Randolph, AHDB’s head of international trade development (dairy), stated, “The US is already the UK’s second-biggest dairy export market. Our analysis underlines a strong opportunity for continued growth. Events like our recent British Cheese Night in San Diego are essential to ensuring world-class produce is showcased directly to key buyers.”
The red meat sector is similarly poised for expansion, bolstered by favourable trade conditions and high regional consumption rates. The AHDB analysis highlights key opportunities: British exporters can leverage the Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD) to ship 13,000 tonnes of beef tariff-free to the US. Additionally, a 1% projected growth in US lamb and mutton consumption offers a steady opening for British cuts, while increasing pork and beef consumption in Mexico presents a developing market for UK processors.
Jonathan Eckley, AHDB international trade development director, emphasised the importance of heritage and provenance as the strongest selling points for British products. “Market insight plays a crucial role in helping shape our strategy. Our updated analysis is encouraging in highlighting long-term opportunities for premium products in the region,” he stated.
To leverage these insights, the AHDB is ramping up its presence in North America. A recent trade mission to San Diego connected 13 British dairy exporters with 130 high-level industry buyers, aiming to strengthen the UK’s position in the lucrative North American retail and foodservice markets.
As global trade dynamics evolve, the AHDB remains committed to providing a diverse market portfolio for levy payers, ensuring that the British reputation for quality and heritage translates into increased export volumes.
