British poultry will soon be back on South African plates after the eight-year ban on UK imports was lifted. This development is projected to generate up to £160 million for the UK poultry industry over the next five years.
The ban was initially implemented due to avian influenza outbreaks in the UK, but the country was declared free of the disease earlier this year, paving the way for the removal of restrictions. This shift is viewed as a significant boost to UK agricultural trade, providing South African consumers with access to high-quality British poultry once again.
Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner played a crucial role in securing this agreement, meeting last week with South African Agriculture Deputy Minister Rosemary Capa and Trade Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield to finalize the deal. Zeichner emphasized that this agreement not only creates new opportunities for UK poultry traders but also strengthens economic ties between the UK and South Africa.
“This deal not only opens new avenues for UK poultry traders but also presents a chance to enhance the UK economy,” Zeichner stated. “We are one step closer to securing better trade agreements for UK farmers, boosting industry resilience, and revitalizing our food exports.”
South Africa was previously a significant market for British poultry, with UK exports worth over £37 million in 2016, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Efforts to regain access to this market have been ongoing for years, with teams from both countries collaborating to navigate the barriers created by avian flu outbreaks.
Industry leaders have welcomed this news. Katie Doherty, CEO of the International Meat Trade Association, called it “fantastic news” for UK producers and exporters, noting that South Africa was a vital market prior to the ban. British Poultry Council Chief Executive Richard Griffiths echoed her enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of trade for both domestic and global food security.
“The resumption of British poultry trade with South Africa following the lifting of the avian influenza ban is a prime example of government and industry collaboration in overcoming technical trade barriers,” Griffiths remarked. “Unlocking access to what was once one of our biggest markets is incredibly exciting.”
