The impact of market factors on UK pork exports in 2023

Decline in pork exports According to the UK

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), total UK pork exports , including by-products, fell by 20% compared to 2022, reaching 298,000 tonnes. The decline was driven by lower domestic pork production coupled with lower demand in Asian markets. There was a decline in most export categories: Fresh and frozen food exports fell 30% to 130,000 tonnes. Bacon exports fell 21% to 13,400 tonnes. Exports of sausage products remained at the same level, but became more profitable, and supplies of ready-made pork dishes decreased by 12% to 4,600 tons. Decline in export value Despite the decline in volumes, the total value of pork exports fell by a smaller amount, down just 9% to £570 million. This is due to rising pork prices due to increased production and logistics costs. The role of by-products It is interesting to note that the supply of by-products has become an important part of UK pork exports. Their volume fell by only 8% to 133,000 tons, representing 45% of total pork exports. This is the highest share in recent years. Red meat exports Despite difficulties in pork exports, total UK red meat exports remained at £1.7 billion in 2023. This has been driven by strong demand for British lamb in international markets. Lamb exports to France, the UK's largest export market, grew by 23% in both value and volume, reaching £292 million and 45,000 tonnes respectively. On the other hand, beef exports fell 15% in volume terms and 9% in value terms. Factors influencing pork exports Key factors influencing UK pork exports in 2023 were: Increased production costs due to rising feed and energy prices Decline in pig numbers due to outbreaks of African swine fever Lower demand in Asian markets, especially in China Logistical difficulties and high transport costs Future prospects The UK's pork export outlook for 2024 remains uncertain. The decline in production is expected to continue, but demand in Asia may begin to recover. However, rising prices and the possibility of new outbreaks of African swine fever remain serious risks.




































The UK pork export industry must continue to adapt to changing market conditions and seek new opportunities for growth. Innovation in manufacturing, processing and logistics will be critical to ensuring UK products are competitive in the global marketplace.