As part of its efforts to promote British dairy products worldwide, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has recently shared key developments, including successful participation in trade shows.
Heading to Singapore from 23rd-26th April for the FHA Food & Beverage event, AHDB showcased British red meat and dairy products alongside five dairy and seven red meat exporters. The event, held at the Singapore Expo Convention and Exhibition Centre, attracted approximately 60,000 visitors.
Singapore is considered an “attractive market” for UK exporters, with 2,763 tonnes of dairy products valued at £8.1 million being exported to the country in 2023. This contributed to the total dairy exports to Southeast Asia, amounting to 8,830 tonnes with a value of £24 million in the same year.
Lucy Randolph, AHDB’s head of international trade development for dairy, emphasized the importance of the Singapore market for British cheese and dairy exports, citing consumer appreciation for premium products. She expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to showcase British dairy products, strengthen relationships, and enhance the profile of British cheese with potential buyers at the FHA Food and Beverage event.
AHDB also announced the appointment of Victor Willis as the new vice president of market development for the USA. With over 25 years of experience in the retail and manufacturing sectors of the dairy industry, Willis will play a key role in promoting British dairy products in the US market. The role, jointly funded by the Department for Business and Trade, aims to create new opportunities for the dairy sector in the US.
The Government’s Dairy Export Programme, launched last November, focuses on providing specialist resources in priority markets to maximize opportunities for the dairy sector. This initiative, supported by a £1 million investment, aims to boost UK dairy exports, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises.
Dr. Phil Hadley, AHDB’s international trade development director, highlighted the importance of AHDB’s work in supporting exports, noting the collaborative effort between AHDB and the Government to drive UK export growth. Victor Willis’ appointment underscores the shared commitment to ensuring the success of UK dairy exports on the global stage.