Record high £4 billion for UK dairy and red meat exports

UK exports of dairy and red meat amounted to £4 billion last year, setting record values for both sectors.

The latest figures from Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the UK showed that the total value of UK dairy exports in 2025 was £2.2 billion, up 16.6% from 2024.

UK red meat exports, including offal, amounted to £2 billion, an increase of 12% from 2024.

The importance of the EU as a market for the UK was highlighted in the latest data, with shipments markets accounting for 73.9% of the total value of UK dairy exports and 81% of red meat exports.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has said that these latest figures followed a good year for its International Trade Development team.

These works included taking part in major international trade shows, having a strong dairy and red meat presence at ANUGA, the largest global food event in Cologne in October, 2025.

AHDB also hosted its biggest ever red meat mission into the UK, which saw a delegation from across the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Middle East taking part in a four-day visit.

Jonathan Eckley, AHDB International Trade Development director, said:

“The latest full-year figures for 2025 are a remarkable success story, underlining demand for our world-class dairy and red meat produce in a wide portfolio of markets.”

An inward mission was also organised for EU meat buyers, providing the opportunity for 12 delegates from France, Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands to find out more about quality British beef and lamb.

AHDB head of International Trade Development (Dairy), Lucy Randolph added:

“Exports are critical to the UK dairy industry by providing a long-term outlet for surplus production.

“They play a huge role in helping to strengthen demand, build price resilience and support long‑term profitability.”

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