Red meat exporters from the UK will join the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) in Vietnam this week to explore what opportunities exist for the pork sector, once market access is granted.

Six pork exporters are heading to Ho Chi Minh for five days to gain valuable insight into the market – which is predicted to bring a boost to the UK pork sector when trade commences.

The AHDB continues to work with government and industry to open the market for UK pork, following an audit inspection visit with Vietnamese authorities earlier this year.

The mission will see exporters visit local markets, attend face-to-face meetings with potential buyers and importers, before attending the 2022 edition of the Food and Vietnam (FHV) show.

The three-day show brings together exhibitors and buyers from across the hospitality and food service sector to create new business opportunities overseas.

AHDB head of Asia Pacific Jonathan Eckley said: “Vietnam is a key target market for AHDB exports, and we have long been working with government to gain access to this valuable market which will bring a major boost to the UK’s pork sector.

“This mission will provide us with an opportunity to gain valuable insight into the Vietnamese retail sector, consumer buying behaviours and better understand the potential for UK pork.

“We are also very excited to be attending FHV, which is the most established trade show in Vietnam, attracting thousands of potential buyers every year.”

AHDB will host a stand at the show, alongside AHDB’s dairy export team – who will be showcasing a selection of dairy products to international buyers.

The show attracts more than 12,000 visitors each year, with over 460 exhibitors from 52 regions, providing the perfect platform to meet and develop business relationships with potential importers.

Eckley added: “It is great to be visiting Vietnam with our exporters now that travel is possible again following the pandemic.”

“This mission will put us in a great position to begin commercial shipments of pork once market access is agreed.”