UK Poultry Set to Crack £10 Million Japanese Market
The UK poultry industry is eyeing a £10 million bonanza over the next five years as fresh export deals open the doors to Japan’s lucrative market. This follows a 2021 market access agreement that allowed UK poultry meat exports to Japan. However, recent Avian Influenza outbreaks had put a brake on trade—until now.
New Deal Boosts Cooked Poultry Exports
A fresh agreement now smooths the path for cooked poultry exports to Japan, one of the world’s toughest food safety markets. Moy Park, one of the UK’s biggest poultry producers, is leading the charge from its Grantham plant, being the first officially registered to export cooked products under this new pact.
Japan’s reputation for rigorous food standards and discerning taste buds makes this a massive vote of confidence in UK poultry quality.
Government and Industry Teams Work Together
- DEFRA officials and the British Embassy in Tokyo spearheaded negotiations.
- The British Poultry Council, South Kesteven District Council, and Food Standards Agency provided crucial support.
Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer: “British poultry is rightly celebrated as some of the best in the world and I’m delighted that new high-value products can now be enjoyed in Japan. I’d like to pay tribute to our Agri-food Attaché network who work hard to secure trade opportunities like this and fly the flag for UK farmers.”
UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jorge Martin-Almagro: “This market access agreement is a positive step forward for the UK poultry industry and a testament to the quality of our meat. Securing this deal amid ongoing Avian Influenza challenges is a real achievement.”
International Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston added: “This is a significant win for British poultry farmers and producers, unlocking one of the world’s largest markets and helping us aim for £1 trillion in exports by 2030.”
Industry Cheers New Opportunities
Richard Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council, said: “We welcome this market access news. Years of collaboration with Government have paved the way for British businesses producing world-class, safe, and nutritious poultry products. Despite challenges like Avian Influenza, we’re excited to expand and maintain crucial markets.”
Local support also shines through as South Kesteven District Council’s Head of Service, Ayeisha Kirkham, praised Moy Park’s compliance with Japan’s tough standards during inspections earlier this year, highlighting the council’s commitment to boosting local jobs and economic growth.
Moy Park’s International Business Development Manager Beatriz Curran said: “We’re proud to be the first UK business to benefit from this new export opportunity. Our focus on food safety, integrity and animal welfare means we’re ready to grow this market even further with the expertise of our talented team.”
Breeding Poultry Deal Secures Future Exports
Japan also remains a key buyer of high-quality UK breeding poultry stock. A recent market access deal means future Avian Influenza outbreaks will lead to regional, not countrywide, export bans. The UK’s world-leading poultry genetics industry will continue providing top-grade stock to Japan’s poultry companies.
