UK was a net exporter. During this time the main market for UK exports (largely manufacturing grade beef) was France, often taking over 50 per cent of total export volumes. The Netherlands, Italy and the Irish Republic were also key destinations for UK product. Approximately one
quarter of exports were sent to non-EU countries with South Africa the main destination.
cattle herd and concerns over the implications for human health.
On 1 August 1999 an agreement was reached for the step-by-step lifting of the complete ban. The Date-Based Export Scheme was
introduced to allow boneless beef and beef products to be exported from GB provided it originated from cattle between six and 30 months of
age born after 1 August 1996. Exports of UK beef and veal have been low since the start of the scheme, partly because of the stringent
regulations involved for both producers and abattoirs. 2006 saw an encouraging lift to nearly 50,000 tonnes exported to the EU.
For more information:
Services, publications and websites
Defra information on International trade: Exports of live animals to European Union (EU) Member States
Defra information on International trade: Exports of animal products to European Union (EU) Member States
Business Link - Practical Advice on whether an import or export licence is required
English Beef and Lamb Executive
HCC/Meat Promotion Wales
MLC Export Department
Telephone: +44 1908 844370
Fax: +44 1908 609221
