Italy-Increased imports of Welsh beef and lamb.

WALES-MEAT DRIVE INTO ITALY.

Last year, Wales exported nearly £6 million worth of Welsh Lamb to Italy and a further £2 million worth of Welsh Beef.

Exports of Welsh red meat to Italy are currently thriving.

Last year, Wales exported nearly £6 million worth of Welsh Lamb to Italy and a further £2 million worth of Welsh Beef. This equates to exportation of over 1600 tonnes of Welsh Lamb and over 450 tonnes of Welsh Beef.

Rural Affairs Minister, Elin Jones said:

"Our success in exporting red meat to Italy is testament to the quality of our Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef and to the esteem in which it is held throughout the world. I am very proud of our success in this area, particularly as Italy is a country famed for its excellent food."

Wales’ success in exporting Welsh Lamb to Italy means that it is already part of a staple diet for Rome’s young people. It is the only type of lamb to be served at schools across the city. The success of Welsh Lamb in winning the contract to supply Rome’s schools was due in part to the granting of the EU’s Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. It is proof that PGI status allows us to maximise the opportunities for promoting Welsh Lamb as a top quality product.

The best of Welsh Beef and Welsh Lamb will be showcased in Italy later this year at the Tutto Food Fair. This is being held in Milan between 10th and 13th June. The trade fair attracts buyers from throughout Italy and exhibitors from across Europe. It is one of the largest in Europe.