The announcement from the Department for Business and Trade, which has been hailed a success for Welsh red meat by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), follows the completion of UK and Japanese scrutiny and bureaucratic processes. A second group is set to be announced once further work has concluded. 

The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement entered into force on 1 January 2021 and will lead to the increase of protected GIs from just seven under the EU-Japan trade deal to over 70. 

Laura Pickup, HCC’s Head of Strategic Marketing and Connections said: "We are delighted that Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef are now protected with the GI designation. It builds on the crucial work HCC has already done in securing a market for our premium brands in what is a key export market for us.  

"Additionally, it means that consumers in Japan can rest assured that when they purchase GI Welsh Lamb and GI Welsh Beef, they are choosing a premium product, which is underpinned by heritage and sustainable production methods that we know are world leading".