Beef and lamb exports on agenda as NFU meets with US officials

The NFU is meeting with senior US officials this week to talk about the potential resumption of beef and lamb exports to the country
The NFU is meeting with senior US officials this week to talk about the potential resumption of beef and lamb exports to the country

The NFU is meeting with senior US officials this week to talk about the potential resumption of beef and lamb exports to the country as well as a number of other key subjects such as the EU / US trade talks, food safety standards and more.

NFU President Meurig Raymond is leading the UK delegation to Washington to meet with, among others, the EU ambassador to the US, the American Farm Bureau Federation President, US trade representatives and representatives of the US Congress.

“It is essential that the NFU takes part in discussions that could potentially open up new markets for our farmers in this country, including re-introducing the opportunity for our livestock farmers to sell into the sizeable US market and expanding opportunities for growing our dairy product exports further,” said Mr Raymond.

“UK beef and lamb exports have been banned since the 1990s. Efforts are underway to resume exports, but progress, especially on lamb has been slow.

"I will meet senior officials to press for progress and promote the quality of our excellent products.

“At the same time, this visit is a chance for us to highlight the world-class welfare standards that set us apart from the rest of the world and that must be recognised in future trade deals.

"This visit will also give us the chance to learn more about the US’s approach to regulation, and how it differs to the EU. I am particularly keen to find out more about the US’s approach to adopting and taking advantage of emerging biotechnology; and the country’s differing approach to plant protection products.”

Mr Raymond is in America from 25-30 October. The British Embassy will also host a reception this evening (Monday) which will give the NFU the chance to promote Great British food and drink.