Updated agri-food exports analysis by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has highlighted opportunities for UK exporters in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
AHDB said that the MENA region was forecast to be the second-largest net importer of food by 2034.
The updated Prospects for UK agri-food exports: MENA analysis provides an economic overview, details on consumption levels, consumer insight and information on market access and barriers to trade. AHDB now anticipates an increase in premium lamb consumption, particularly in the Gulf region, and dairy consumption, which it said is forecast to outstrip production in the region.
Jonathan Eckley, AHDB international trade development director, said: “International market and consumer insight plays a key role in helping us deliver a programme of promotional activity on the ground to support our export businesses.
“For red meat exports the MENA region is an important market, particularly for the sheep meat sector, with consumption relatively high compared with other regions around the world. An anticipated increase in consumption over the next eight years is positive for the sector and we will continue to work with industry and Government to explore the potential for the export of quality sheep meat in the region.”
AHDB said that the updated analysis for MENA coincided with the body taking part in Gulfood in Dubai from 26th January to 30th January, supporting six red meat and ten dairy businesses to promote products in the region.
The event aimed to provide the opportunity for export businesses to meet with existing and potential new customers, and also included 24 dairy exporters taking part in a breakfast event organised by AHDB to showcase produce ahead of the show on Monday 26th January.
Eckley added: “The valuable market and consumer insight provided by our colleagues in Market Intelligence plays a pivotal role in underpinning our work on the ground and the work of our in-market representatives to meet global demand for quality British red meat and dairy produce.
“AHDB is committed to invest in helping our red meat and dairy exports thrive on the global stage through a comprehensive programme of work which includes participating in major events like Gulfood. Connecting with people in the industry is essential and supporting our export businesses at events like this does precisely that, providing a shop window for our produce and a platform to meet buyers and help grow our export trade.
“We look forward to continuing working with industry and Government to develop further export opportunities for our red meat and dairy sectors in the region.”
