UK Poultry Set to Crack £10 Million Japanese Market
The UK is eyeing a £10 million bonanza in poultry exports to Japan over the next five years. Fresh and cooked British poultry has traded with Japan since a 2021 market access deal, but recent Avian Influenza outbreaks grounded much of that trade—until now.
New Agreement Opens Doors for Cooked Poultry
A fresh deal now smooths the way for cooked poultry exports to Japan, unlocking a lucrative market famous for its strict food safety standards and appetite for premium cuts. Moy Park, one of the UK’s biggest poultry producers, is the trailblazer, becoming the first to export cooked poultry from its Grantham plant under this new agreement.
Japan’s stamp of approval highlights the world-class quality of UK poultry production. The deal comes after tough negotiations by Defra, the British Embassy in Tokyo, the British Poultry Council, and regional partners.
Officials Praise British Poultry Excellence
“British poultry is rightly celebrated as some of the best in the world,” said Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer. “I’m delighted that new high-value products can now be enjoyed in Japan.”
Dr Jorge Martin-Almagro, UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, added: “This market access agreement is a real achievement amid Avian Influenza challenges and proves the quality of UK poultry meat.”
International Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston called it “a significant win” that will boost exports, create jobs, and help Britain reach £1 trillion in annual exports by 2030.
Industry Leaders Celebrate New Opportunities
Richard Griffiths, Chief Exec of the British Poultry Council, welcomed the deal, praising government efforts to open doors for world-class UK food producers. Local officials at South Kesteven District Council, overseeing Moy Park’s hygiene standards, also highlighted the smooth cooperation with Japanese inspectors.
Moy Park’s International Business Development Manager, Beatriz Curran, said: “We are proud to be the first UK firm taking advantage of this fantastic opportunity. Our focus on food safety and animal welfare makes us confident this market will grow.”
Stronger UK-Japan Poultry Ties Amid Avian Flu
In addition to cooked meat, a new agreement protects high-quality UK breeding poultry exports from long-lasting bans due to Avian Influenza outbreaks. This means targeted regional restrictions rather than blanket countrywide blockades, keeping British poultry genetics flowing to Japan.
With these deals, the UK poultry industry is set to strengthen its global standing and cash in on growing demand in one of Asia’s toughest markets.
