Meat industry leaders warn that increased charges for Food Standards Agency staff, including abattoir veterinarians and inspectors, could threaten the viability of some operations. From the end of this month, hourly rates for certain services will rise by more than 20 percent. The agency says a global shortage of veterinarians and wider inflationary pressures have driven up its costs.

Businesses across the food supply chain are being urged to prepare early for a new trading system under the European Union and United Kingdom Trade Agreement due next year. The agreement is expected to ease some food biosecurity paperwork requirements, a move welcomed by international trade representatives.

Meanwhile, conflict in the Middle East has disrupted trade and increased oil and fertiliser prices, raising concerns about potential shortages of imported fertiliser. In response, some farmers are investing in alternative solutions, including slurry separation technology to produce more effective home grown fertiliser and reduce reliance on imports.