Sheep industry praises work to open doors for UK genetics

"It is important to acknowledge the long and arduous work behind the opening of these new export markets", the NSA says
"It is important to acknowledge the long and arduous work behind the opening of these new export markets", the NSA says

Recent cross-industry work by the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP) in obtaining export health certificates for ovine semen and embryos for both New Zealand and the USA has gained praise across the industry.

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is one of several supporters of UKECP, which is a Defra/industry partnership dedicated to securing market access for UK meat and livestock producers.

The NSA particularly recognises the work of Export Certification Ltd in achieving this huge boost for the breeding sector in the UK.

Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: "These certificates are massively beneficial to the UK and are indicative of the high quality and international demand for UK breeding stock.

"It is important to acknowledge the long and arduous work behind the opening of these new export markets, and important to recognise we’ve essentially built our reputation back up from point zero in 2002, following the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

"We are infinitely grateful to UKECP and Export Certification Ltd for the continued work in opening up opportunities like this for the sheep industry.

"NSA urges any breed societies or individual breeders who’ve ever had enquiries or contact with colleagues in New Zealand or the States to follow them up and make the most of the fact a door has now opened to exploit these opportunities."

Re-opening markets 'hugely encouraging'

Henry Lewis of Export Certification Ltd says: "This is somewhat of a breakthrough with the tight legalisations imposed on the UK in the past, and it’s hugely encouraging to have been able to re-open these markets.

"It reflects well on the UK’s reputation for having a strong health status, but also recognises the potential such a depth and range of breeds here in the UK could offer.

"The UK has had its disease challenges in the past and the new export health certificates we’ve obtained are symbolic as a step forward.

"Exports form an important part of the wheel in terms of trade. The fact the UK is seen to be out there competing and keen to do business means potential markets will want to invest in the products we have.

"It shows the great confidence both USA and NZ markets have in our domestic sheep industry, and it’s encouraging we’re now able to build on this relationship."