Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2020
865. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he and his Department have identified any potential challenges for the pigmeat export sector; the actions required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42074/20]
View answerThe pigmeat sector has shown remarkable growth in recent years. Last year the total value of pig meat exports was €891 million; an increase from €828 million in 2018.
Over 103,000 tonnes of pigmeat exports valued at over €463 million was exported to the UK in 2019. This represents almost 52% of total export value for the sector.
However, third country markets, which have been steadily expanding in recent years, rose to 29% of total share in 2019. This is illustrated by the significant expansion in Ireland’s pig meat exports to Asia, and to China in particular, where export values more than doubled from €79m to €177m.
Irish pigmeat can be exported to a broad range of international markets including, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the USA. In May of this year the opening of the Mexican market for Irish pigmeat was announced. With a population of more than 120 million, the Mexican market represents a substantial opportunity for Irish pigmeat exports.
The short-term outlook for the pigmeat market will be influenced by global supply and demand dynamics as well as by potential COVID-19 disruption to supply chains. Ensuring the continued operation of Irish food supply chains and expanding market access remain key priorities for my Department.
My officials continue to work towards increasing market diversification by opening and enhancing access to as many international markets. This is a key part of our response to the challenges and uncertainty posed by Brexit and is in line with the market development theme of the Food Wise 2025 strategy.
