Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
2030. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the markets that have been developed by the organic associations and by Bord Bia between 2009 and 2021 for organic beef, organic lamb and organic milk; the new markets that have been secured and that will be secured for each organic product in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2562/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraBord Bia is the state agency responsible for the marketing of Irish organic produce and are currently building on their current activities through targeted development and promotional activity.
From a business expansion perspective, Bord Bia will continue to invest in identifying and supporting export market opportunities for Irish organic companies including those seeking to export beef, lamb and milk products through their network of overseas offices and trade events such as the BioFach trade fair in July 2022.
During 2021 Bord Bia commissioned research into the German Organic Market and are planning to undertake a similar exercise in the Nordic markets in 2022.
Subject to travel restrictions, Bord Bia plan to deliver a Ministerial trade mission to Germany with five selected retailers in July 2022 to help advance activities in Europe’s largest organic market.
It is appreciated that real challenges exist when it comes to growing and co-ordinating the supply base so that the sector is well placed to benefit from the growing demand for organic produce.
To address this issue Bord Bia is currently engaging with Irish retailers to identify opportunities to work together to promote Irish organic produce. Specifically, Bord Bia are engaging directly with two Irish retailers to encourage purchase of organic ranges.
The last 12-18 months have seen increased interest and emphasis on Irish organic produce. Organic is no longer a niche category but a ‘sought after commodity’.
Retailers have also expressed ongoing interest in growing the category and this is reflected in recent in-store / merchandising investments.
The increasing consumer recognition of organic produce and its linkage to reducing the carbon footprint of the sector is a key component of my Department’s commitment to develop, nurture and grow Ireland's reputation as a quality exporter of organic produce.
