Irish dairy exports to UK grew despite Covid and Brexit

Ireland exports about 90% of its food and drink production. Given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the fact that the UK is now operating outside of the EU Customs Union, the performance of the Irish export sector was robust in 2021. Bord Bia has also published new three-year targets to further contribute to the growth in the value-chain of Irish food and drink exports as part of the launch of its new 10-year Statement of Strategy. The plan envisages a significant expansion in the value growth of Irish food and drinks exports during the period, including an 11% increase in the value of dairy, meat and livestock exports, and a 14% jump in prepared consumer food exports. The UK remains a primary export market for Ireland. In 2021, 33% of Ireland’s total food and drink exports were destined for the UK, with 34% headed for international markets outside the UK and EU, and 33% for the EU. Two-thirds of Prepared Consumer Foods (PCF) are exported to the UK and experienced a 1% increase ...