The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has announced that it will establish and operate a new UK Pre-Stun Halal Export Accreditation Scheme, creating an industry-led framework opening up new markets to UK sheep meat exporters.

The scheme which will be UKAS accredited will be developed in consultation with industry and government and will provide independent accreditation against recognised international pre-stun halal export standards. Based primarily on the long-established New Zealand model, it will give overseas customers confidence in UK production systems while helping processors access new international trading opportunities.

Open to eligible UK sheep processing sites, the scheme will provide businesses with the right to use a dedicated UK Halal Export Accreditation Scheme mark. It is expected to strengthen the competitiveness of UK sheep meat exports, support growth across the supply chain and contribute to the Government’s wider export and economic growth ambitions.

BMPA brings extensive experience in developing and managing industry assurance programmes. These include the BMPA Quality Pork Charter, which provides assurance on animal welfare, food safety, provenance and traceability, and the Climate Change Agreements scheme, which helps energy-intensive meat processing businesses improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

An industry steering and oversight group will be established to support the development and implementation of the scheme and ensure broad industry engagement.

John Powell, Chief Executive of BMPA, said:

“This scheme represents an important opportunity for the UK sheep meat sector. By providing a clear, independently accredited framework, it will help businesses access valuable export markets while giving customers confidence in the integrity and standards behind British production.

BMPA has a proven track record of delivering successful industry-led schemes, and we look forward to working with processors, certification bodies and government to develop a scheme that creates lasting value for our members and the wider industry.”

Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman said:

“The UK is recognised around the world for its high standard of animal welfare and this new independent accreditation scheme will give overseas customers even more confidence that UK sheep products come from systems that uphold those standards.

“This new UK pre-stun Halal Export Accreditation Scheme represents an important step in helping our sheep meat sector access new international markets, and will support our exporters in securing valuable new opportunities, whilst maintaining our high standards of animal welfare.”

Notes to Editors

• The UK Pre-Stun Halal Export Accreditation Scheme will initially cover sheep meat exports.
• The scheme will be owned by the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) and administered by an approved independent certification body.
• The scheme is intended to provide a recognised accreditation framework supporting exports of pre-stun halal sheep meat to international markets.