According to data from HMRC, the UK imported 28,500 tonnes of fresh and frozen beef in September. This was 34% (circa 7,000 tonnes) more than was shipped during August, and during September a year ago. Volumes increased from all key suppliers, most notably from Ireland (+5,100 tonnes). Historically, we have seen an uplift in UK beef import volumes in September compared to August, but this year the September figure is particularly high. The September figures meant that year-to-date UK import volumes totalled 171,700 tonnes, 3% more than the same period a year ago. An 8% increase in the average price of these imports brought their total value to £725 million.
For fresh and frozen beef headed out of the UK, volumes totalled 8,300 tonnes in September, 8% below August and 9% below September a year ago. Again, Ireland was the main influence, as 31% (1,300 tonnes) less beef was exported there compared to September 2020. More beef was sent to other destinations including France, Iran and the US. For the year to the end of September, UK fresh and frozen beef exports totalled 72,000 tonnes, 17% below the same period a year ago. A 5% increase in the average price of these shipments brought their total value to £251 million.