The UK faces further pressure over beef supplies as Uruguayan exports fall.

Uruguayan production is expected to fall by 8% during 2009 according to Uruguay's Instituto Nacional de Carnes (INAC), with a further fall anticipated in 2010.

The fall could be significant as Uruguay has supplied more beef to the UK and Europe in the wake of problems over Brazilian and Argentinian exports.

Between January and June, total Uruguayan beef exports fell by 14% although, to date, shipments of Uruguayan beef to the EU have remained steady.

Meanwhile, the NFU has claimed that an EU Food and Veterinary Office report into Brazilian beef production provided little comfort in the wake of concerns over its safety.

It has asked the EC to look again at its findings, and called on the commission to halt certification of Brazilian beef farms until guarantees are provided.

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