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- Prospects for UK agri-food exports: Introduction
Prospects for UK agri-food exports: Introduction
This analysis of export opportunities for primary agricultural products forms part of AHDB’s export work which is funded by the industry and supports the Government’s wider policy objectives of securing vibrant, long-term sustainable markets for British agri-foods.
Trade deals create both opportunities and threats for UK producers of agricultural and food products and potentially create increased competition in the domestic marketplace.
The effect of trade deals such as Australia, New Zealand, USA, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and Switzerland have been examined in detail by AHDB.
However, ongoing work on market access can create new opportunities.
“First, opportunities need to be identified. This AHDB analysis aims to pinpoint where these opportunities exist.”
The fact that the UK is not a low-cost producer and is unlikely to become an exporter of bulk commodities any time soon should not hold us back from promoting UK produce across the world.
The importance of exports to primary producers cannot be underestimated in helping balance supply and demand, and maximising value for particular cuts of meat.
This helps drive the carcase value higher by maximising returns on every part of the animal, as well as providing an opportunity for specialist dairy and other products.
Burgeoning markets
The ongoing expansion of the middle classes in emerging markets across the globe is shaping the demand for protein and imported foods. The UK is well placed to participate in this burgeoning market.
Our consumer insight analysis shows the British brand is well-regarded globally and is associated with quality, safety and provenance.
How the UK can best capitalise on these emerging opportunities is the key question. First, opportunities need to be identified. This AHDB analysis aims to pinpoint where these opportunities exist. We must also examine how our major competitors’ target, manage and develop their key markets.
The UK has lessons to learn from New Zealand, Australia, and the USA, as well as from the Danes and Irish, regarding:
- How domestic produce can be branded and promoted
- How trading relationships are developed
- How to support potential domestic exporters as they explore these new opportunities
In this analysis, we examine the global opportunities that currently exist or will emerge over the coming decade.
We present data and insight into how major exporters have developed and maximised the value of their produce in overseas markets.
The work is intended to inform producers and exporters of those opportunities and the challenges that need to be addressed and inform policymakers and trade negotiators regarding the economic potential in particular markets.