Succulent, grass-fed British beef will be back on the menu in the Philippines following a £34 million export deal.
Market access for beef was withdrawn in 1996 due to concerns over BSE — better known as “mad cow disease”.
Now, following a visit to UK farms by Philippine inspectors, the restrictions have been lifted.
Announcing the deal, UK farming minister George Eustice said: “Securing market access for our world-class beef to the Philippines is a huge vote of confidence for a sector that already exports more than £350 million around the world, including Hong Kong and Canada.
“The UK beef industry is the envy of the world and this strong demand globally for our traditional breeds reared to the highest welfare standards is what drives our exports and creates opportunities for our farmers.”
The Philippines is the largest food and drink market in Southeast Asia with meat consumption predicted to grow by 10 per cent over the next five years.
Dr Phil Hadley, of the UK’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, said: “We are delighted the Philippines has approved UK beef exports, a market we already export pork to. The decision indicates future expansion for UK agriculture and our growing export markets globally.
“This decision enhances an exciting 12 months for UK red meat exports, with wider markets opening in Hong Kong last July and a Japanese government delegation investigating beef production controls just last month.”
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