Challenges ahead for food and drink sector as Covid-19 restrictions hamper economy

Depressed confidence and impaired balance sheets will hold back recovery as economy further reopens’ - OECD

The Food & Drinks sector is facing challenges because of Covid-19 restrictions. File Photo.  

While the agri-food sector is holding its ground, it faces challenges, nonetheless, because of Covid-19 and Brexit.

The Annual Review and Outlook for Agriculture, Food and the Marine report which was launched this week by Minister Charlie McConalogue pointed to how the sector plays “a vital role” in the Irish economy - employing 164,400 people or 7.1% of total employment last year.