British lamb exported to US for first time in more than 20 years

The first shipment of British lamb exported to the US in two decades has been sent by meat processor Dunbia from its site in Carmarthenshire, Wales.

Market access for UK lamb was granted earlier this year, following the lifting of a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) ban in place for more than 20 years.

The US market is estimated to be worth about £37m to the UK sheep sector during the first five years of trade, and the market could account for about 6.5% of total UK lamb exports, according to the AHDB.

See also: US delegation’s visit marks step towards UK lamb exports

A weaker pound against the US dollar will also help to encourage export trade, with the pound at $1.11 on Monday 10 October.

Andrew Smyth, Dunbia’s commercial director, said: “As the largest processor of lamb in the UK, it is imperative we continue to have access to new and emerging international markets, and we welcome the small ruminant rule amendment.

“We continue to work closely with the AHDB to identify and develop new market opportunities for our quality British produce.”

Industry reaction

Defra secretary Ranil Jayawardena said: “Tucking into roast lamb for Sunday lunch is quintessentially British – and now millions of American families will be able to enjoy our top-quality lamb too.

“The opportunity for growth for British food is enormous – bringing jobs, skills and prosperity across the nation. With our mission to unlock growth, we will continue to secure more opportunities for our farmers and food producers to benefit from new markets.”

The news was also welcomed by Phil Stocker, chief executive of the National Sheep Association, who said the development is fantastic for the British sheep industry and comes after many years of hard work by the AHDB, working closely with other levy bodies.

Mr Stocker said: “The success of our sheep industry is based on market opportunities and access to the USA will offer just that, building on what is already a healthy demand for our high-quality British lamb.”

Wales rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths said: “This is a real boost for the industry. Securing access to the USa market has been a long running effort, with Welsh government and Hybu Cig Cymru having raised this issue with American authorities over a decade ago. I want to thank everybody who has worked hard to get to this point.”