UK secures US$24.3M pork export deal with Mexico

UK – A new trade agreement between the UK and Mexico is enabling twelve pork producers across the country to begin supplying meat to the Mexican market, with the deal estimated to be worth around US$24.3 million over the next five years.

The companies approved for export include facilities based in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, marking a significant expansion of access for Northern Irish farmers in particular.

This deal allows UK businesses to sell pork cuts that are less in demand at home but widely consumed in Mexico, helping producers find value in underutilised parts of the animal.

Government officials report that the agreement follows sustained efforts to expand agricultural exports and build on recent successes such as the resumption of pork shipments to China.

The Mexican pork market has grown steadily, increasing by 5.4% annually between 2019 and 2024, making it a valuable target for international exporters.

Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said the move is part of the government’s wider plans to support farmers and maintain export momentum.

Exports Minister Gareth Thomas added that eliminating trade barriers remains a core focus of current trade policy, aiming to generate faster returns for businesses.

Among the sites cleared to export are Cranswick Country Foods operations in Hull, Watton, and Ballymena, and Pilgrim’s Pride facilities in Spalding and Westerleigh, Bristol.

Other approved exporters include Thermotraffic Ltd in Wrexham, Magnavale Chesterfield Ltd in Chesterfield, ABP Cold Store in Hull, and Americold Spalding Ltd.

Karro Food Group in Cookstown, Turners (Soham) Ltd in Suffolk, and Interfrigo Ltd in Antrim also feature on the list.

Officials say the deal aligns with existing food safety and welfare standards and offers financial benefits to rural economies across the UK.

The access to Mexico gives farmers an outlet for products that would otherwise have limited marketability in the UK, especially at a time of shifting demand and trade dynamics.

With the pork sector continuing to face pressure from changing consumption patterns and export restrictions, the agreement is expected to help maintain steady production levels.

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