Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) is set to showcase Scotland’s red meat sector at SIAL Paris 2024, one of the world’s premier food and beverage trade shows, taking place from October 19-23.

Red meat is a cornerstone of the Scottish economy and also plays a vital role in international trade. QMS is committed to highlighting the exceptional quality and sustainability credentials of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork on this global stage as part of its five-year strategy to position Scotland as the premium choice for red meat.

SIAL Paris attracts over 7500 exhibitors from 130 countries and is expected to welcome 285,000 visitors from 200 countries, with 70% of them being international. Organisers say this will include 8000 top buyers with a combined purchasing power of €50 billion.

MORE NEWS | Scotland’s farming heroes celebrated in Thanksgiving service

MORE NEWS | Farmer sentenced over cattle carcasses found in slurry pit

Chair of QMS, Kate Rowell, said: "Red meat plays a crucial role in the Scottish economy, supporting local farmers, producers, and communities. Our presence at SIAL Paris aims to underscore the significance of this sector and promote its value to premium markets in Europe and beyond.

“Engaging in international events like SIAL Paris opens doors to significant business opportunities and drives industry growth around the globe. This participation is a strategic move within our five-year plan to make Scotland the premium choice for red meat, enhancing our market presence through international exports and promoting new business relationships."

All Scottish red meat exporters will be represented on the QMS flagship stand, as well as producers and wholesalers looking to export for the first time.

They will be joined by key QMS staff who will promote the Scottish red meat industry and highlight the PGI and UKGI marks to global buyers and traders. Visitors to the QMS stand will have the opportunity to experience the exceptional quality of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork, showcased by innovative recipe samples prepared by award-winning chefs, Eadie Manson and Scott Lyall.

Cabinet secretary for rural affairs, land reform and islands, Mairi Gougeon will also be in attendance, underlining the Scottish Government’s commitment to promoting the nation’s quality produce on the global stage.

Director of market development at QMS, Tom Gibson, added: "SIAL Paris is a premier event for the global food industry, and we are excited to showcase the outstanding quality and innovation of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork. Our participation is a key component to elevate Scotland’s status as the premium choice for red meat and build valuable connections in the global marketplace."

Rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Scotland is renowned for its exceptional meat produce, with buyers all over the world recognising the quality and provenance that our red meat brings to the table.

Having QMS at the forefront, with the amazing work they do ensuring we are visible and showcasing at platforms like SIAL and Anuga, shows their dedication to the industry.

“These fantastic trade shows are successful in providing great opportunities for the sector and allow us to engage directly with importers – further demonstrating why our produce is so sought after.”