The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is attending major international trade show SIAL China in Shanghai to showcase British pork.

The food and drink event, which kicks off today (Monday, May 28) and will run until Thursday (May 30), is expected to attract more than 1,500 international exhibitors and nearly 100,000 buyers.

AHDB said it is a key platform for exporters’ products to take centre stage in front of existing and potential new clients.

China remains the UK’s largest single market for pig meat exports, taking 112,218t in 2023, worth over £179 million.

There continues to be strong demand for fifth-quarter exports with 58.8% of volume shipped falling into this category.

The latest data shows that in the first quarter of 2024 alone, UK pork exports to China totalled 28,189t and were valued at £37 million.

A ‘major market’

AHDB head of international trade development, Jonathan Eckley, said China is a “major market” for British pork due to its substantial demand and ongoing growth potential.

“SIAL China is a critical event for us as it provides a unique opportunity to showcase our high-quality products to a vast audience of international buyers,” he said.

“This platform is essential for strengthening our relationships with existing clients and establishing connections with new potential customers.

“Our presence at SIAL China highlights our dedication to expanding our reach in this key market and supporting our exporters in maximising their opportunities.

“We maintain an important presence in China via Holly Chen, our representative who works solely for AHDB via the China-Britain Business Council.”