A high-level delegation from the Punjab government has completed a “very successful” visit to the UK to assess British pig production and genetics as the Indian state intends to develop its burgeoning pig sector, says AHDB Pork.
Organised by the British Pig Association in conjunction with AHDB Pork, the party visited pig breeding firms, a feed mill, an abattoir and AHDB Pork headquarters, where they were given presentations on the economics of the UK pork sector as well as pig health and welfare.
They also went to APHA Weybridge and Kent University to look at research into pig breeding, including embryo transplant.
“They are seeking our pig genetics and management systems as they want to improve productivity, welfare and product quality,” said AHDB Pork senior export manager, Jonathan Eckley. “Punjab has been taking the lead in the modernisation of Indian agriculture and already produces 76,000 tonnes of pork on a yearly basis.
“It was a very successful visit. The delegation went away with a huge amount of information which they will need to evaluate to determine which systems and practices best suit the conditions in India. Of course, all the pig breeding stock in India is of British origin.”
Meat consumption in India is currently increasing by 14% a year with India being one of AHDB Pork’s key target markets for exports.
Headline image shows the party at AHDB Pork headquarters