Bord Bia has released its latest Export Performance and Prospects report, underscoring the “strong and enduring” trade relationship between Ireland and the UK.
Bord Bia said that Ireland’s food and drink industry demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in 2024, with exports to the United Kingdom reaching a record record €5.9 billion (£4.9 billion), marking a 7% increase compared to the previous year.
Meat exports, led by beef, increased by 5%, standing at €1.3 billion (£1 billion). Pigmeat exports rose 11% to €150 million (£124 million), and poultry surged 16% to €83 million (£69 million). The UK continues to be the strongest market for Irish beef, driven by consumer demand, with increases in demand for steaks, roasts and mince.
Overall, global exports of Irish food, drink, and horticulture grew by 5% to €17 billion (£14.1 billion) in 2024. This performance marks a milestone year for Irish food and drink exporters, despite enduring global trade challenges caused by geo-political instability, fluctuating inflation and ongoing high trading costs.
The UK remains the largest single destination for Irish food and drink exports. In 2024, the UK’s share of these exports is estimated to have increased by 1% to almost 35%, underscoring the UK’s continued strategic importance to the Irish food and drink industry.
Key trends and outlook
Bord Bia said that despite the cost-of-living pressures impacting consumer spending, Ireland’s food and drink industry shows adaptability, quality, and innovation in meeting changing market demands. There is a strong demand for Irish beef, with beef exports reaching €1.3 billion (£1 billion), reflecting sustained UK demand for premium Irish produce.
“This success highlights the quality and diversity of Irish products that UK customers and consumers trust and value.”
Donal Denvir, Bord Bia director, UK.
Donal Denvir, Bord Bia’s director UK, praised the resilience of Irish producers and the robust Ireland-UK trade ties: “This success highlights the quality and diversity of Irish products that UK customers and consumers trust and value. This is a remarkable achievement when we consider the ongoing challenges facing global trade, including climate change, sustained high prices, and geopolitical uncertainty.
“The growth in exports, despite these challenging conditions, underscores the strong trade relationship between Ireland and the UK and highlights the quality of Irish products that UK consumers highly value. This would not be achievable without the dedication and output of our farmers, fishers, and innovative processors and other food and drink producers who play a crucial role in our sector.”
With exports reaching €17 billion (£14.1 billion), the performance in 2024 reinforces Ireland’s position as a leading global food and drink supplier, showcasing the industry’s resilience and ability to meet evolving consumer demands.
