UK vegetable exports rise 42 per cent in 2022 as value of UK-grown food and drink shipments grows
The value of exports in a number of UK-grown food and drink products has rocketed by nearly 30 per cent, reaching a new high of £4.5bn in 2022, the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) reveals.
To mark the start of the NFU Conference yesterday (21 February), the FDF compiled the latest export figures released by His Majesty’s Customs and Excise.
The data revealed a strong growth in dairy exports, reaching £2bn up 36 per cent from 2021, in beef grossing £648.9m (up 44.9 per cent) and vegetables totalling £442.4m (up 42 per cent). This growth has coincided with an increase in volume of sales in most categories over the last 12 months, the FDF said.
Commenting on the export figures, the FDF’s head of international trade Dominic Goudie said: “Despite the turbulence of the past few years, it is great to see the appetite for UK produce remains as strong as ever. Our products, which are trusted for their world-leading quality, safety, animal welfare and sustainability credentials, can be found in shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and along high streets around the world every day.
“As demand for UK exports returns to pre-COVID levels, it is vital that the Government ensures pragmatic solutions are in place to facilitate sustainable growth of UK food and drink exports, supported by a border that prioritises the efficient movement of short shelf-life products, while protecting our vital trade with EU partners and beyond.”
