The Food and Drink Federation have released figures showing that food and drink exports from the UK reached £22.6 billion (US$29.9bn) last year, a “slower growth” compared to the 9.7% rise of 2017.
During 2018, there was slower growth in both exports to EU markets (+4.3%) and non-EU markets (-0.3%). Three of the top 20 non-EU export markets have shown double-digit growth rates (China, Australia, and Singapore).
Seven of the top 20 markets for UK food and drink exports experienced a reduction in value, including the US and France.
Whisky was the UK’s most significant export in terms of value, increasing sales by 7.7% and increasing by 3% in volume. Chocolate is the second most important UK export product, while cheese is the third.
Gin exports from the UK grew 15% by value and exports of beer fell 7% by value to £48.2m (US$63.8m). Wine increased by 9.8% in value to £630.4m (US$834.4m).