The UK Government has launched a Dairy Export Program, set to enhance the nation’s dairy sector by expanding export opportunities. This initiative, part of a wider government support strategy for agriculture, food, and drink, was announced on November 9th. Minister for Exports Lord Offord will spearhead the program’s inauguration at Lye Cross Farm, Bristol.
A direct outcome of the Prime Minister’s £1 million pledge to the dairy industry at the Farm to Fork Summit in May, this program dovetails with a £2 million boost aimed at global trade events, a collaborative venture with industry peers, and the Food and Drink Export Council.
Tailored to bolster UK agri-businesses, the program offers educational sessions on export maximization, targeted trade promotion activities, and a UK Dairy Showcase. It also ensures specialist resources for priority markets and vital market intelligence support.
Lord Offord’s visit to the successful dairy exporter Lye Cross Farm marks the official launch. He emphasized the agriculture, food, and drink sector’s crucial role in economic growth, expressing confidence in the program’s potential to open up new international avenues for UK businesses.
With UK dairy exporters already having achieved £2 billion in global sales last year, the industry is at a turning point, with new trade deals potentially increasing this figure. The overarching government aim is a surge in exports to £1 trillion by 2030, a target the Dairy Export Program supports.
Characterized by ambition and innovation, the UK dairy sector comprises SMEs that have managed to reach over 135 countries with their exports. Support from the DBT (Department for Business and Trade) has been pivotal, encompassing the facilitation of buyer tastings, dairy showcases at international food shows, and assistance at significant trade events across Japan and China.
The sector also enjoys backing through the DBT’s Export Support Service, Export Academy, and UK Export Finance, alongside a network of domestic and international trade advisers.
Acknowledging the government’s enhanced support, Tim Rycroft, Chief Executive of AHDB, highlighted international trade’s centrality to the sector. NFU Dairy Board Chair, Michael Oakes, underlined the Dairy Export Taskforce’s role in reducing trade barriers and pinpointing growth opportunities.
The UK is set to lead the global dairy trade, offering safe, high-quality, and sustainable products. This vision is shared by Peter Dawson of Dairy UK, who also chairs the Dairy Export Taskforce, affirming the potential for economic contributions and growth within the dairy processing sector.
The Dairy Export Program represents the UK’s dedication to elevating its dairy industry, ensuring its global market reputation for quality and sustainability is unmatched.
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