Welsh Lamb in demand at Anuga

HCC claimed Spanish and Italian importers had taken an interest in light lambs weighing up to 14kg despite recession having large impact on demand.

HCC chief executive Gwyn Howells said: “We understand the severe economic difficulties that have been experienced by the people of these countries in recent years. But the positive feedback we have had from buyers in both Spain and Italy has provided us with an assurance that the demand for our light lambs is still strong. ​

“HCC is working closely with our processors to ensure Wales remains at the forefront of light lamb exports to the southern Mediterranean.”​

Meanwhile, the organisation also reported that Russian companies had shown a great interest in the category and were keen to put Welsh Lamb on sale in shops.

Market development manager at HCC Laura Dodds said: “Welsh Lamb is not only a world-class brand, but is seen as a high-quality premium product, which explains the interest from an increasingly wealthy Russia.​

“Identifying new markets is important to ensure the continuing viability of the Welsh red meat industry. Exports bring the wealth back to Wales, securing 50,000 jobs in the farming and processing industries and boosting the Welsh economy.”​

A delegation of food importers and manufacturers from Japan were also greeted on the organisation’s stand in Cologne, part of the first steps in opening up the Japanese market for Welsh lamb and beef. Welsh Minister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies AM met the delegation.

He said: “It’s important to say that we in Wales have an excellent relationship with Japan and the Japanese people. The relationship goes back decades to the time when major Japanese companies set up manufacturing bases in Wales. I am keen to see this relationship develop in the food sector.”​

In 2012, Welsh red meat exports were worth more than £218m to the economy.