£80m uplift for British pork as China lifts export ban

British pork is back on Chinese menus as the UK government announces the end of Covid-era restrictions on unprocessed pork exports to China, unlocking an estimated £80m revenue boost for the industry.

The move, confirmed on Sunday 8 December, means UK producers can immediately resume shipments of premium pork products, including sausages and bacon, to China – already the UK’s largest non-EU market.

In 2023 alone, China imported £180m worth of British pig meat, and the reopening is expected to expand this significantly.

See also: UK cheese exports flourishing in Chinese market

The breakthrough follows top-level negotiations led by foreign secretary David Lammy during his October visit to China.

Defra, alongside the Department for Business and Trade, worked closely with industry bodies like the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP) to secure the agreement.

“This is a massive win for British pork producers,” said Defra farming minister Daniel Zeichner.

“It’s a further example of this government delivering on our Plan for Change, boosting growth, and benefiting businesses across the country. Our pork is world-famous for its quality, and now we can give Chinese customers what they’re hungry for.”

Trade minister Douglas Alexander also talked up the economic impact, saying that opening export opportunities “is vital for growth”.

“This announcement will be welcome news for British farmers and producers, who can now grow their exports to one of the world’s largest markets,” he added.

Reaction

Industry leaders have praised the collaboration between government and trade bodies.

Deputy chief Veterinary officer Dr Jorge Martin-Almagro called the decision “fantastic news”.

AHDB chief executive Graham Wilkinson highlighted its importance for the sector.

“This achievement demonstrates how government and industry working together delivers tangible benefits for our levy payers,” he said.

The resumption of pork exports to China follows the recent approval of British beetroot exports to the US.