UK sheep and goat breeders have secured entry into Kenya’s livestock market, which includes an estimated 46 million animals, through a government agreement on exporting genetic material.
This deal, estimated by the industry to be worth around £700,000 annually, aims to meet Kenya’s increasing need for superior breeding stock as the nation enhances food sufficiency amid a growing population.
Projections indicate a notable increase in Kenya’s sheep and goat populations in the years ahead, which will maintain ongoing demand for the UK’s advanced genetics.
UK’s Role in Global Livestock Genetics
The UK serves as a hub for genetics research, featuring varieties such as Angus beef, Large White pigs, Suffolk sheep, and Dorking chickens. Its innovative technologies and approaches make UK livestock genetics desirable worldwide for their variety, durability, and standard.
According to industry figures, UK breeding stock underpins more than 70% of the world’s poultry, and UK bovine genetics reach every continent, providing access to over 100 countries globally.
Government and Industry Perspectives
Minister for Food Security Dame Angela Eagle stated that UK livestock genetics hold a worldwide reputation for excellence, with nations seeking them to bolster their agricultural areas and enhance food security.
She mentioned it was pleasing to meet with agri-attaches recently and learn directly about their efforts in promoting UK agriculture internationally.
This opportunity with Kenya highlights the international interest in the high quality that characterizes UK agriculture. It represents the type of global cooperation that supports the agricultural sector and trade ties as part of the Plan for Change.
Building on Existing Export Successes
The agreement extends from demand for various UK genetics. In Argentina, UK rams from imported embryos achieve record sales prices, while UK pig breeders have developed the use of frozen semen to deliver high-quality genetics to nations impacted by African Swine Fever, minimizing disease risks from moving live animals.
Earlier this year, Turkmenistan allowed entry for UK high-value poultry genetics, valued at a quarter of a million pounds per year.
These recent trade arrangements show substantial economic potential for the UK’s premium poultry and livestock to satisfy rising global demand for quality breeding stock, broadening international trade under the government’s Plan for Change.
Industry Leaders’ Views
Marcus Bates, Industry Chair of the UK Export Certification Partnership, noted that the network established through collaborative efforts is now yielding positive outcomes for UK livestock genetics exporters.
Industry contributions from companies and levy boards are complemented by assistance from Market Access and Veterinary Trade Facilitation teams, and now with agri-attaches worldwide, enabling competition with the USA and certain EU countries that have utilized agri-attaches for years.
Richard Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council, said that 70% of the world’s poultry originates from high-value UK breeding stock, with an export industry estimate of £320 million. Along with complete traceability, established standards, and robust trade prospects, British poultry genetics contribute to global food security.
Trade attaches play an essential role in this achievement, advocating for British poultry meat globally. Since 2024, they have maintained food trade during avian influenza periods, obtained various regionalisation agreements, and opened Turkmenistan for high-value genetics worth a quarter of a million pounds – ensuring British poultry reaches people worldwide. He looks forward to ongoing collaboration.
Support from Agri-Attaches
The agreement results from the work of Defra’s agri-attaches and comes after a recent industry engagement week, where the agri-attache network interacted with producers they represent abroad.
These meetings assist attaches in understanding UK exporters’ experiences and spotting new opportunities in their regions, allowing the UK to participate in key global markets.