Vion Food Group

News Meat

Vion's export license for non-EU countries is partly lost

July 5, 2024 - Wouter Baan

Vion is losing part of the recognition from the NVWA to export from the main location in Boxtel to third countries such as China. The supervisor temporarily suspended the license on Wednesday, July 3. Vion responded by saying they are very surprised.

The NVWA took this step following a regular inspection that took place at the end of last week. Comments were made based on observed issues. Vion does not disclose exactly what the shortcomings were. However, the meat company states that immediate adequate measures have been taken.

Nevertheless, this did not prevent the NVWA from withdrawing the license to export to countries outside the European Union a few days later. The duration of the suspension is unknown. Vion expresses surprise and confirms they are in discussions with the supervisor.

Setback
For Vion, it is a setback that it can temporarily no longer export pork parts from Boxtel to overseas destinations such as China, Japan, and South Korea. Around 18,000 to 20,000 pigs are slaughtered weekly at the main location. While the export of pork parts outside Europe may not be as lucrative as it was a few years ago, the revenue per pig still amounts to about €20.

Wouter Baan

Wouter Baan is the editor-in-chief of Farmerbusiness and a market specialist in dairy, pork, and meat at DCA Market Intelligence. He also tracks developments within the agribusiness sector and conducts interviews with CEOs and policymakers.