ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
April 2024 marked the initiation of the subsequent edition of the ‘European beef in Asian markets’ campaign, a continuation of the 2022 campaign and UPEMI’s promotional and informational endeavours in the Japanese market, promoting beef imported between 2018 and 2021.
The ‘European beef in Asian markets’ programme was initiated by the Union of Producers and Employers of the Meat Industry (UPEMI), a leading industry organisation comprising more than 110 entities in the Polish meat sector.
The campaign allows European producers to exhibit their current product offerings and enhance their understanding of the expectations of beef consumers in Asia.
For further information, refer to About the Programme page
Read moreNews
The Japanese market stands out as one of the most demanding yet rewarding destinations for the EU beef sector. A significant factor driving this trade is the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and Japan, which entered into force in February 2019. This agreement gradually reduces tariffs and streamlines veterinary procedures, allowing European producers … Continued
High-quality European beef carries inherent marketing value, thanks to its combination of excellent raw materials, longstanding breeding traditions, rigorous production standards, and strong ties to the continent’s culinary heritage. In an era where consumers carefully scrutinise labels, inquire about product origins, and seek transparency in production practices, the European pedigree of meat has transcended mere … Continued
European beef is not merely a food product sold as meat portions; it is the result of a long-standing agricultural tradition passed down through generations. For importers, this translates into access to raw materials with exceptional taste and a credible story. This aspect is particularly relevant in Asia, where the cultural value and authenticity of … Continued
EUROPEAN BEEF SECTOR
The European Union (EU) is one of the world’s major beef producers. Its cattle herd is estimated to be approximately 78 million1.
Within the European Union are large farms that specialise in pure beef cattle production and organic farming, alongside farms that focus on fattening mixed breeds or rearing dairy cattle. European exporters, therefore, have a diverse range of beef in many product and price categories.
For more information, refer to the European Beef Sector page
EXPORT TO JAPAN
Japan is not self-sufficient in beef and its related products. Indigenous production is insufficient in relation to demand. European beef sales to Japan have been growing steadily since 2017. In 2023, European Union countries exported 92,031 tonnes of this meat to Japan, and by June 2024, exports totalled 40,893 tonnes. This significant increase shows the great potential for trade between the EU and Japan in this product range.
For more information, see the Export to Japan page
Read moreEXPORT TO HONG KONG
Hong Kong is one of the leading importers of beef from the European Union. In 2023, the country imported 69,729 tonnes of beef from Europe; by June 2024, it had already amounted to 41,926 tonnes. These figures confirm the huge trade potential for beef exports to the Hong Kong food market.
For further information, see the Export to Hong Kong page
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1 Information from agriculture.ec.europa.eu webpage
2 Data from the European Commission “Beef & Veal Market Situation” report
3 Information from agriculture.ec.europa.eu webpage


