British dairy farmers are set to benefit from continued access to a major international market thanks to a breakthrough with Egypt that will prevent a trade barrier due to come into effect next year.
Preventing the trade barrier that was due to come into force in January will protect an estimated £250 million in additional export opportunities for farmers over five years helping them sell more products like milk, butter and cheese.
Following UK Government engagement—led jointly by the Department for Business and Trade and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs—Egypt will not impose a proposed trade barrier requiring halal certification on all dairy imports.
This change means British favourites like cheese and butter can continue to reach Egyptian shelves more easily and affordably.
Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said: “Britain is a great place for dairy farming and has an excellent reputation for quality, welfare standards and sustainability globally.
“The change to certification requirements in Egypt will cut costs and red tape for exporters, boosting growth opportunities.”
In 2024, the UK exported around £26 million of dairy items to Egypt and removing this barrier protects UK exporters already exporting to Egypt and those looking to enter the market for the first time.
The proposed barrier would have required halal certification on dairy products, adding over £1,000 per shipment in costs and complexity.