UK-NZ sheep industry 'fact finding mission' to go ahead

A government funded "fact-finding mission" will see figures from the UK sheep industry visit New Zealand to talk about export ambitions and new opportunities.

The short visit, which has been funded by the UK and New Zealand Governments, will facilitate the exchange of knowledge between industry and Government.

It is hoped the visit will enhance relationships, create new opportunities for collaboration, and provide insights to support future agricultural production and export ambitions.

The UK sheep sector is particularly vulnerable as the UK moves toward leaving the EU.

A hard-hitting report released late last year concluded that Scotland's sheep sector could be destroyed by a 'hard' Brexit, with average incomes expected to decline by 210%.

Phil Hadley, AHDB International Market Development Director, said the implications of Brexit for both agricultural support and trade are "still not clear".

“This visit will enable UK representatives to learn some valuable lessons from their New Zealand counterparts and help the industry become more resilient to future challenges,” Mr Hadley said.

Delegates including representatives from AHDB, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), will take part in a full programme of events and visits, enabling them to get a detailed insight into New Zealand’s sheep industry, from grassland management and knowledge exchange to slaughter regulation.

The exchange will also cover exports and certification, giving UK representatives an overview of how New Zealand has become a world leader in this area.

Alan Clarke, Chief Executive of QMS, said: “Next week’s visit presents an opportunity to gain an exceptional first-hand insight into the New Zealand lamb industry and I am confident the insights we return with will be of significant value to our industry.”