Celebrating Welsh food and drink

16 @specialityfood EXPORT International Potential The world is hungry for Welsh food and drink – and the sector is ready to feed this growing appetite W elsh food and drink’s reputation for excellence extends far beyond its own borders – to the delight of food lovers across the world who appreciate its quality, authenticity and focus on sustainability. Indeed, according to insights from Food & Drink Wales, the value of Welsh food and drink exports stood at £839 million in 2024 – the highest recorded yearly value fromHMRC. This has risen by nearly half since 2019; a 47% growth of £269 million. European countries with an appetite for premium quality food and drink are Wales’ most valuable audience, with Ireland, France and Belgium the top destinations for Welsh food and drink exports. Despite the popularity of Welsh food and drink in its neighbouring countries, producers are setting their sights on further flung territories such as Asia, the Middle East and America to offset the sometimes choppy waters caused by Brexit and to introduce a wider international audience to the wonders of Welsh produce. Wales’ famed meat products are leading the charge, with a value in 2024 of £293 million, while cereal products are second in line with an impressive value of £170 million after a 187% boost between 2019 and 2024. Welsh fruit and vegetable exports experienced a sizeable increase in 2023-2024 – a jump of 147%, from £13 million to £33 million. Helping producers grow None of this success could have been possible without the support network enjoyed by numerous Welsh food and drink producers. This ecosystem, a key project of the Welsh Government, brings together experts from across the industry and beyond to bridge skills THE VALUE OF WELSH FOOD AND DRINK EXPORTS STOOD AT £839 MILLION IN 2024 – THE HIGHEST RECORDED YEARLY VALUE FROM HMRC