Food and drink exports topped €8bn in 2006

IRISH food and drink exports delivered double-digit growth last year to exceed €8 billion for the first time, according to Bord Bia’s annual performance and prospects report, published yesterday.

The value of exports is estimated to have increased by €756 million, or 10%, to €8.1bn, despite a strong euro exchange rate against the dollar and ongoing competitive pressures in major export markets.

Agriculture and the food industry employs 155,000 people, accounts for over half the country’s indigenous exports and represents almost a 10th of the economy.