Government trade specialists help open new international markets for UK producers, unlocking export growth that’s driving investment across rural economies and the wider property and logistics sectors.
The UK’s food and drink industry – the country’s largest manufacturing sector, worth £37 billion and supporting nearly half a million jobs – is enjoying a major uplift in global trade, as government attachés help dismantle export barriers and open new markets worth almost £100 million.
Since January, the UK’s network of 16 agri-food attachés has resolved 41 trade barriers, paving the way for significant new export flows. Key wins include reopening pork exports to China valued at up to £80 million, gaining access to Vietnam’s fast-growing live seafood market worth £4 million a year, securing £35 million in annual dairy exports to Egypt, and a £3.8 million pork deal with Mexico.
These developments are not only strengthening the nation’s export profile but also fuelling growth in logistics, storage, and processing infrastructure – critical areas of interest for property developers and investors responding to increased demand for food production and distribution capacity.
Strengthening Regional Economies
The attaché scheme, part of the government’s Plan for Change, is supporting regional growth by helping producers from across the UK reach global buyers. For rural and agri-industrial areas, the surge in trade is expected to stimulate inward investment in warehousing, processing facilities, and cold storage – key real estate assets in the modern food supply chain.
Minister for Food Security Dame Angela Eagle commented:
“Every trade barrier we remove is another door opened for British farmers and food producers to sell their world-leading products. From beef to baked goods, British food and drink are in demand worldwide, and this boost shows what can be achieved when government and industry work hand-in-hand.”
Global Expertise Driving Local Opportunities
The attachés, who are based in major global markets, will return to the UK from 3–7 November to meet producers, visit food innovators and manufacturers, and identify new export opportunities. Their on-the-ground market knowledge has been instrumental in promoting the UK’s reputation for quality and sustainability — key selling points for global buyers.
Jonathan Eckley, International Trade Development Director at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), highlighted the broader economic potential:
“International trade plays a major role in supporting our levy payers and the collaborative approach between AHDB, industry and government delivers tangible results for our red meat and dairy sectors.”
Expanding Horizons for Investment
The attaché network’s success underlines the growing strength of the UK’s agri-food export base, which continues to attract attention from investors and developers seeking to capitalise on expanding supply chains. With premium exports such as whisky, chocolate, and salmon leading the charge, demand for logistics and industrial property aligned with the food sector is expected to grow well into 2026.