URGENT talks to allow live exports of cattle and sheep to Russia are taking place following huge interest at the recent Agrofarm exhibition in Moscow.

Delegates believe there is huge demand for UK breeding cattle with initial orders put at 200,000 females.

Kim Haywood, the Hexham-based National Beef Association (NBA) policy advisor, led last month's trade delegation and said Russian enthusiasm for specialist UK livestock and semen exceeded all expectations.

She said: "The interest in beef cattle tended to be general rather than specific but they were keen on Simmental, Hereford and Angus and there were also inquiries about Charolais, Highland and Dexter."

Russia is rebuilding its national cattle herd and restocking agents will pay a premium well above prices paid by EU export buyers for suitable stock.

The agents represent specific regions in Russia and intend to lease the cattle back to emerging farmers in a package that includes personnel to cover management, nutrition and breeding, and also individuals with husbandry and artificial insemination skills.

But before live exports can begin the Russian government has to adopt an animal health certification scheme. Talks to achieve that have begun.

Ms Haywood said: "It is frustrating to know that orders for tens of thousands of cattle are currently blocked by the absence of certification, but the British Ambassador is to meet Russian government agriculture officials."

Russian importers are also putting pressure on their government.