Pig semen from the UK has been used for the first time in India to improve its breeding stock and produce better quality pork.
The first ever shipment of frozen porcine semen has arrived in the country and is being used by the Punjab Government to develop a high-health nucleus of pure-bred pigs.
Government officials are keen to use British pig expertise to develop their industry and provide high quality, safe meat to its 30 million population in Punjab. A second order has already been placed.
The move has been praised by experts at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, who believe it highlights the world-leading expertise of the British pig sector.
Leading in agri-tech ventures
Jean-Pierre Garnier, Head of Exports for AHDB, said it is an 'important development' and shows how the UK can lead in agri-tech ventures.
He said: “This success was achieved against strong competition from other major pork producing countries.
“With India due to become the most populated country in the world over the next few years and with a rapidly increasing demand for high quality, safe meat, this type of development is essential.”
This latest move forms part of a large-scale development of the Punjabi pig sector and experts say it could open the door to other British suppliers.
It comes after three years of targeted market activities in Punjab. In June, a Punjabi high level delegation visited the UK and in November, AHDB, in conjunction with the British Pig Association, attended two important agriculture shows in Northern India.
Christopher Jackson, Export Manager for the British Pig Association, added: “We have built strong relationships with key Punjabi government officials. They are keen to use British pig expertise to develop their industry. This is a great opportunity for the entire British pig industry.”
