Russia targeted for Welsh Beef and Lamb exports
Hopes have been raised of the Russian Federation lifting it's ban on imports of beef and lamb after a team of eight Russian vets inspected conditions on Welsh farms and in processing plants. Similar inspections have also been made by Chinese and Canadian officials, and the Canadian government has already authorised the import of Welsh lamb to Canadian territory.
“This is the first stage in realising our ambition to export our premium quality produce to Russia. We believe the visit was a success and we now await their decision — but I am optimistic of a positive outcome,” said Market Development Manager of the Welsh Red Meat Promotion Agency (Hybu Cig Cymru) Laura Dodds.
“If the Russian Federation agrees to lift the restrictions, it will mean we can also export our produce to Belarus and Kazakhstan which, along with Russia, are members of the Customs Union trade group. Russia is one of the world’s biggest importers of beef. If restrictions are lifted, the beef market alone could be worth up to £115 million a year for British producers.” added Miss Dodds.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
