16.6% dip in dairy exports
Bord Bia said uncertainties over world economic prospects kept buying activity cautious and at low volume levels. Growth in cheese consumption was not as strong as expected, though consumption in Europe continues to rise and will continue to be an important factor for the dairy sector this year. While world market prices are expected to show some measurable improvement in 2003, some fluctuations are anticipated in the early part of the year.
Bord Bia said the prepared foods sector, which incorporates chilled, frozen, confectionery and long-life food products, was valued at
