Semen Exports' £7 Million Boom
04/07/05

EXPORTS of British cattle genetics have hit a high point not seen since the 1980s, it was revealed at the Royal Show on Sunday July 3.

Livestock Export Manager for the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX), Henry Lewis, told a Press Conference that last year Britain exported 750,000 straws of cattle semen worth a total of £7 million.

Speaking at the British Livestock and Genetics Export Centre Henry said that exports representing 23 cattle breeds had last year gone to a total of 37 countries.

He added that the British pig industry had also had successes in re-opening export markets for genetics, with strong sales to Europe, the USA and the Far East.

Henry said: "Despite problems we have had in the past, exports of cattle genetics are now as high as they were 20 years ago. The industry is working closely with Defra in seeking certification in other markets.

"We are hoping further to boost exports at this show, which has become an excellent platform for business among a host of visitors from all round the world."