Exports of Welsh lamb to China are a step closer following the signing of an agreement between the British and Chinese Governments.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by UK Prime Minister David Cameron and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang during a visit to Downing Street last week.
It includes a commitment for detailed negotiations to allow the import of British lamb and beef to China, which could be worth £120 million a year.
“This is excellent news and shows that the work we have put in over a number of years with the Chinese authorities is beginning to pay off,” said Gwyn Howells, chief executive of Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales.
“The Chinese market is vast with a growing appetite for red meat. I am confident that Welsh lamb is exactly the kind of premium quality meat that is demanded by the growing number of affluent consumers thanks to the country’s booming economy.”
HCC commenced discussions with Chinese Minister Counsellor Zhou Xiaoming in 2010. Since then HCC has been involved in numerous talks with Chinese officials both in Beijing and in the UK about exporting Welsh Lamb to the country.
Chinese officials have visited Welsh farms and abattoirs on numerous occasions over the last four years to see for themselves the quality of our livestock and the high standards operated at processing plants.
“Welsh lamb has been available in Hong Kong for many years, but we are keen to export it to mainland China,” said Mr Howells.
“HCC’s market research has shown there is a demand for our meat on the mainland. HCC and our partners in the red meat processing industry are keen to turn that demand into valuable export earnings for Wales.”
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.
