Exports increase by 19% with EU markets leading the demand

Scotland's red meat exports have reached a new peak, hitting a record £164 million (EUR 189) from August 2024 to July 2025. This milestone, reported by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), marks a 19% increase in value compared to the previous year, with export volumes also rising by 4%.

EU Dominance

The European Union continues to be a crucial market for Scottish beef, lamb, and fifth-quarter products, accounting for over 99% of beef and lamb export revenues and 98% of the total export sales. The EU's share of fifth-quarter product sales stands at 85%, underscoring its importance in maintaining carcase balance. France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Belgium emerge as the top five markets by value, highlighting the strong demand for Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb across Europe.

Market Implications

The increased export value signifies a growing role for exports in the performance of Scottish meat processors. Beef exports now represent 10% of abattoir output, while lamb exports account for 35%, reflecting significant growth. This expansion is attributed to the strong demand in key European markets, where supply constraints are supporting higher-value trade.

These results highlight how Scottish exporters are successfully capitalising on strong demand,

Iain Macdonald, QMS Market Intelligence Manager.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, QMS is gearing up for Anuga 2025, the world’s leading food and beverage trade fair in Cologne, Germany. This event, which previously generated £22.9 million (EUR 26.5) in new export business in 2023, is expected to attract over 170,000 trade visitors from nearly 200 countries. It presents an opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships and explore new markets for Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork.

Our previous success at Anuga showed the huge potential this event has to drive growth.

Tom Gibson, Director of Business Development at QMS.

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