AHDB Dairy Export Conference examines surging opportunities

Global opportunities and future priorities for British dairy produce were under the spotlight at the inaugural Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) Dairy Export Conference, held recently. The event, supported by the Provision Trade Federation (PTF) and RM Boulanger, brought together export businesses, UK government representatives and wider industry stakeholders to examine the UK’s trading relationships with multiple markets and help shape future priorities for the sector.

AHDB’s conference followed a successful first half of 2025, which saw the value of UK dairy exports increase 20% on the year to £1.1 billion. From January to June, AHDB’s UK-based Dairy Export team and in-market representatives in the US, Middle East and Asia supported a total of 36 UK companies at 14 events across the world as part of its drive to promote world-class British dairy produce. Cheddar remains a top product, but whey, infant formula and premium dairy products are also seeing increases, AHDB reported.

Around 60 delegates heard about export opportunities, including tips from businesses already exporting, with speakers discussing their business’s export journeys. Delegates were also given updates from AHDB’s in-market representatives in the US, Middle East and Asia.

Lucy Randolph, AHDB head of international trade development for dairy, said, “Collaborative working is key to helping ensure our dairy exports continue to thrive and the conference also provided us with valuable feedback from the industry to help shape our priorities as we plan our activity for next year.”

Rod Addy, PTF director general and chairman of the Dairy Export Taskforce, noted,  “While international markets remain volatile, lucrative opportunities exist for those armed with the right support and information. The Dairy Export Taskforce aims to identify some of those opportunities and support and equip producers in breaking into new markets and expanding their presence. This conference highlighted the most exciting successes of the taskforce to date and its future quest to ensure exporters excel.”

Randolph added, “We have had a busy year supporting the dairy sector at events around the world and the figures for the first half of 2025 were very encouraging. Our aim is to continue supporting our exporters to help build on what has been achieved to date. Feedback and shared insight from the Dairy Export Conference will be instrumental in helping us shape our priorities and activities for the next financial year to help ensure our world-class dairy produce achieves its global potential.”

Further details about export opportunities for British dairy can be found in the AHDB analysis Prospects for UK agri-food exports.