West Australian farm exports to the United Kingdom are booming with lamb and mutton sales growing to $22 million in 2023-24.
The WA government said there was a record $41.3 million in exports, driven by a Free Trade Agreement with the UK which abolished 99 percent of tariffs on Aussie goods.
Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis also led a trade mission to the UK during which he and representatives of WA sheep meat companies met with buyers at Smithfield Market in London, one of Europe’s largest wholesale meat markets.
Mr Jarvis says they are focused on growing WA’s red meat sector through new markets, locally and internationally.
“Earlier this year, I met with the UK Minister for State for Food, Farming and Fisheries, as well as the British processors and international meat traders associations in London to discuss market requirements and highlight WA’s potential to become a preferred supplier,” he said.
Regional Development Minister Don Punch says the UK is a priority destination for WA wines.
“(The) industry reported a 23 per cent increase in sales from 2022-23 to more than $13 million in the last financial year,” he said.
The UK accounts for 36 per cent of total wine exports and demand is growing.
“Demand for seafood from our pristine WA waters continues to increase,” he says.
In the first full year of the FTA, WA agricultural exports reached a record $41.3 million, up 15 per cent on the previous year. This was led by growth in sheep meat exports, which rose by six per cent, and wine, which increased by 15 per cent.
Australian Rare honey is also building UK market share while WA seafood is making inroads with premium retailer Whole Foods Market choosing to exclusively feature Marine Stewardship Council certified, sustainably sourced Fremantle Octopus in its seafood counters and freezers throughout the UK.
