UK dairy farmers keep £250M Egypt market access

British dairy farmers will keep access to Egypt’s market after the Government of United Kingdom prevented a costly trade barrier that would have required halal certification on all dairy imports starting in January, according to the UK government. The breakthrough protects an estimated £250 million in export opportunities over five years for farmers selling milk, butter, and cheese. Egypt’s decision to drop the proposed requirement removes over £1,000 in certification fees per shipment and cuts administrative hurdles for UK exporters.

The UK exported around £26 million worth of dairy products to Egypt in 2024, making it one of the leading suppliers to the market. Egypt had planned to require halal certification on all dairy imports, which would have added costs and complexity for British exporters already facing market uncertainty. The proposed barrier threatened to hurt farmers from Cornwall to Scotland who depend on international sales to grow their businesses.

Regular engagement between the UK’s Department for Business and Trade and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs helped convince Egypt to abandon the plan.

“This is a clear win for UK farmers,” said Trade Policy Minister Douglas Alexander. “By opening up the Egyptian market, we’re helping British farmers sell more of their world-class dairy abroad.” Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner said the change “will cut costs and red tape for exporters, boosting growth opportunities.”

The removed barrier particularly helps producers of cheese, butter, and milk powder – some of the UK’s most popular dairy exports – who now face fewer hurdles when selling to Egyptian buyers. Rod Addy from the Provision Trade Federation called Egypt’s decision “a welcome development, eliminating a longstanding trade barrier for UK exporters” that should open growth opportunities for other dairy categories.

The success shows the UK government’s Trade Strategy in action, focusing on removing market barriers and growing exports to support rural communities across Britain.