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NORTHERN IRELAND CATTLE TRADERS AND STOCK OWNERS ASSOCIATION TALK EXPORTS WITH LMC

Ref:

Wednesday 23rd April 2008

A group of Northern Ireland cattle traders and stock owners met in Crumlin last Wednesday night (16 April) to discuss exports with Jelmer Hania, Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) Export Development Executive.

Mr Hania began by discussing the LMC's role in re-establishing Northern Ireland beef and lamb in export markets and the development of more niche-like markets, for breeding stock and genetics.

A lively discussion soon ensued as the association voiced its strong concern about the 30-day stand still rule in GB and how the same piece of legislation is interpreted differently across the EU. The association questioned the rule in GB and how it strongly opposes the rule since it puts Northern Ireland producers at a cost disadvantage.

Discussion also developed around some of the smaller export initiatives LMC is involved with. Since October 2006 the LMC has organised participation for Northern Ireland cattle and sheep breeders at European agriculture trade shows, which have resulted in significant sales for the many Northern Ireland breeders.

Jelmer said, “Northern Ireland has always had high quality cattle and sheep genetics, the challenge is how to get this message across Europe and achieve sales. Participation at international trade shows is probably the best way of making the first contact with the right buyers and the LMC is proud that we have been able to assist the Northern Ireland cattle and sheep breeders in doing just that. LMC also played a major role in bringing Italian livestock buyers to Northern Ireland in the Autumn of 2006 and May 2007.”

Jelmer went on to talk about the resilience of beef consumption in Europe, about the growing EU beef deficit and how this may impact on trade issues. Jelmer said, “Northern Ireland is in a favourable position, with our lush natural grass based diet for cattle and sheep and our high standards of production, which create more opportunities for exports. Furthermore global demand is driven by the rapidly growing economies of China and India, which is impacting global demand.”

Next week Jelmer will join Northern Ireland sheep breeders on a trade mission to Russia, where the demand for sheep breeding stock is high and orders have already been placed for sheep from Northern Ireland.