Pig semen from the UK has been used for the first time in India to improve the country’s breeding stock and produce better quality pork, according to AHDB Pork.
The first ever shipment of frozen porcine semen has arrived in the country and is being used by the Punjab Government to develop a high-health nucleus of pure-bred pigs and a second order has already been placed.
“This important development shows how we can lead in agri-tech ventures,” said AHDB’s Head of Exports, Jean-Pierre Garnier (pictured above). “With India due to become the most populated country in the world over the next few years and with a rapidly increasing demand for high quality, safe meat, this type of development is essential.”
The new export follows three years of targeted market activities in Punjab. In June, a Punjabi high level delegation visited the UK and in November, AHDB, in conjunction with the British Pig Association, attended two important agriculture shows in Northern India.
“We have built strong relationships with key Punjabi government officials,” said British Pig Association Export Manager, Christopher Jackson. “They are keen to use British pig expertise to develop their industry. This is a great opportunity for the entire British pig industry.”