The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has highlighted significant opportunities for UK exporters of high-quality dairy and red meat in North America, as consumer demand for premium, artisanal products continues to grow.
Analysis by AHDB, published in the updated “Prospects for UK Agri-Food Exports: North America”, shows that dairy exports, particularly cheese, are poised to be major beneficiaries. Cheese consumption in the region is projected to increase by an average of 11% by 2034, providing UK producers with a growing market for traditional British varieties such as Cheddar, Stilton, and other territorial cheeses. North American consumers have demonstrated a strong preference for premium products that offer quality and value — characteristics often associated with British dairy.
The report also identifies promising opportunities for UK red meat exporters. While US consumption of sheep meat is expected to grow modestly at around 1% per year over the next decade, projected increases in pork and beef consumption in Mexico, coupled with higher-than-global-average demand in the US and Canada, present additional avenues for trade. Heritage, provenance, and quality are key selling points for British red meat, particularly as consumers increasingly seek products with clear origins and artisanal credentials.
Jonathan Eckley, AHDB International Trade Development Director, said:
“Supporting UK red meat and dairy exports is central to our work for levy payers. Insight into global markets allows us to shape strategies and deliver tangible support, from trade missions to participation in major industry events. North America remains a priority region, and our updated analysis highlights long-term growth potential for premium British products.
“Our beef exporters, for example, now benefit from the Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD) with the US, which allows them to ship up to 13,000 tonnes of beef tariff-free. This, combined with the heritage and provenance of our products, gives British produce a distinct advantage in the market.”
The report coincided with AHDB’s annual British Cheese Night in San Diego, now in its fourth year, which saw 13 UK dairy exporters showcase their produce to 130 key buyers from across the US. The event is part of AHDB’s broader strategy to strengthen the UK’s foothold in the American dairy market and raise awareness of the quality and diversity of British cheese.
Lucy Randolph, AHDB Head of International Trade Development (Dairy), said:
“The US is the UK’s second-largest dairy export market, and our exporters have built a strong reputation there over many years. Events like British Cheese Night in San Diego are critical in showcasing our world-class produce and in helping exporters connect with new and existing buyers. Our updated analysis underlines the growth opportunities in this important market and demonstrates that British cheese and dairy can continue to thrive abroad.”
As British exporters look to capitalise on North American demand, the combination of market insight, trade promotion, and established reputations for quality positions UK dairy and red meat products for long-term success in the region.
