(Yicai) June 3 -- UK agricultural companies are exploring different segments of the Chinese food market to capitalize on more opportunities, according to the UK trade commissioner for China.

"This year, we try to bring more companies and focus not just like last year on meat producers but also on dairy," Sohail Shaikh told Yicai in an interview at the Salon International de l'Alimentation China. The event was busier, and UK exhibitors received more inquiries than last year, Shaikh noted. "It's a good sign of success."

The SIAL China comprises two annual exhibitions, one in Shanghai and one in Shenzhen. The first one was held in Shanghai from May 18 to 20, while the second will take place in September.

Four UK pork firms led by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board showcased their products at the SIAL China in Shanghai. UK dairy companies Wyke Farms and Coombe Castle established partnerships with Shanghai-based Anich Dairy Shanghai Trading at the event.

China is the largest export market in Asia for UK agricultural companies. "It's the second-largest consumer market in the world, has the biggest middle class, and a growing consumer base, so for them, it's a priority," Shaikh said.

During his three years of experience with the Chinese market, Shaikh observed intense competition but also great potential. The Chinese market is very competitive because market participants include not only overseas but also Chinese high-quality products, he noted, adding that it is also very large, so it needs products in volume and at the right time.

"Our role in the UK government is to help producers access the best buyers and illustrate to consumers why UK sustainable, high-quality products are a great option within China," Shaikh said.

UK cheese products offer unique flavors to Chinese consumers, who are showing strong interest in natural cheeses, indicating broad market prospects, Rene Teunissen, general manager of Anich Dairy Shanghai, told Yicai.

"We have made significant investments in our facilities to ensure compliance with Chinese market requirements," a representative from the UK's Karro Food Group told Yicai. "China is a key part of our international growth strategy."

Beyond traditional strengths in pork, whisky, and salmon, Shaikh sees potential in new categories, such as healthcare supplements, pets, and agricultural technology.

The UK government actively promotes bilateral agricultural trade through various channels, including encouraging companies to participate in Chinese exhibitions. Beyond SIAL China, UK firms also regularly participate in the China Fishery and Seafood Expo.

"The UK government is very focused on growth," Shaikh pointed out. "The number one mission is to grow the economy, and to grow the economy, we have to do more trade with China."

China imported USD19.5 billion worth of products from the UK last year, down 2.9 percent from the previous year, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce. Agricultural products only accounted for less than 6 percent of the total imports, with pork imports reaching 117 million pounds, MOFCOM data also showed.

Editor: Futura Costaglione