British pork products gain access to Mexican market

UK – British pork exporters are now able to sell offal in Mexico after the country extended its market access to include products such as tails, snouts, and cheeks.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) announced that this change could bring in an estimated US$23 million (KSh 3 billion) over the next five years.

This follows the initial opening of the Mexican market to British pork over three years ago, marking another step in strengthening trade between the two countries.

To support the expansion, AHDB has created a Spanish-language brochure that highlights the role of offal in Mexican cuisine, using visuals aimed at attracting local consumers and buyers.

These images have also been included in promotional stands, with Mexican chef Gerardo García demonstrating how to cook the products at various events.

Offal is an important ingredient in traditional Mexican dishes, making the newly approved exports a strategic move for British suppliers.

Mexico’s demand for pork has been rising, with meat consumption growing by 4.7% annually between 2017 and 2022, yet local production is insufficient to meet the needs of consumers.

As the second most consumed meat in Mexico, pork imports play a crucial role in bridging the supply gap, providing an opportunity for British exporters to expand their sales.

This development is the result of collaboration between the UK government, industry representatives, and AHDB, emphasizing the growing importance of international trade in agriculture.

By entering new markets, British pork producers can reduce waste by selling parts of the pig that have lower demand in the UK while increasing their revenue.

The UK’s ability to supply Mexico comes at a time when its domestic pig meat production is declining, with 2023 output dropping to a five-year low of 927,400 tonnes, an 11% decrease from the previous year.

Production fell sharply in December 2023, reaching 71,900 tonnes, which was 18% lower than the same month in 2022.

In the first quarter of 2024, the UK produced 227,800 tonnes of pig meat, while the total from January to April stood at 306,400 tonnes.

By September 2024, production reached 79,500 tonnes, showing some recovery but remaining below previous levels.

With lower domestic output and increasing international demand, the expansion into the Mexican market presents a chance for British pork exporters to maintain profitability despite challenges at home.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.