North America offers export boost for British dairy and red meat producers
30th January 2026
AHDB has highlighted future opportunities for exports of high-quality British dairy and red meat to North America. Dairy exports could be the biggest beneficiary, with cheese consumption across the continent forecast to rise by an average of 11% by 2034.
The latest AHDB analysis revealed how artisanal British cheese is well-placed to capitalise on North American consumer appetite for premium products which they believe are good value based on the quality of the product.
The report has also highlighted opportunities for UK red meat exporters, driven by higher than global average consumption levels, particularly in the US and Canada. An anticipated modest 1% growth in US consumption of sheep meat over the next decade, coupled with projected increases in consumption of pork and beef in Mexico, could also provide UK red meat exports with further opportunities.
Long-term opportunities for British producers
Jonathan Eckley, AHDB international trade development director, said: “Support for our red meat and dairy export trade forms one of the cornerstones of AHDB’s work on behalf of our levy payers.
“Market insight plays a crucial role in helping shape our strategy to support levy payers through activity on the ground, including inward and outward trade missions and participation in major trade shows.
“Analysis and insight, coupled with connecting with people on the ground, helps ensure we have a broad portfolio of markets for our red meat and dairy sectors. Our updated analysis for North America is encouraging in highlighting long-term opportunities for premium red meat and dairy products in the region.”
Mr Eckley explained that the UK’s beef exporters can now benefit from the Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD) with the US, enabling them to ship 13,000 tonnes of beef tariff-free to this high-value market.
“The heritage and provenance of British produce can also act as an important selling point for American consumers, especially with territorial dairy products such as Stilton and Cheddar, which our exporters can potentially capitalise on,” the expert concluded.
AHDB’s updated analysis for North America also coincided with AHDB and 13 dairy exporters taking part in an exclusive British Cheese Night event in San Diego, promoting world-class British produce for key industry buyers.
The event, now in its fourth year, attracted 130 guests and connected British cheese exporters with existing customers and potential new ones.
Established reputation in the US market
Lucy Randolph, AHDB head of international trade development (dairy), said: “The US is the UK’s second biggest dairy export market. Our dairy exports have an established reputation in the US market, supported by the promotional work of our in-market representative, Victor Willis.
“The updated AHDB analysis underlines the strong opportunity for the growth of cheese exports in this important market. Events like our British Cheese Night in San Diego are therefore essential in ensuring our world-class produce is showcased to buyers to help build on our strong foothold in the US market.”
Further details about export opportunities for British red meat and dairy can be found in the AHDB analysis Prospects for UK agri-food exports.
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