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Ireland’s food and drink: facts and figures

Ireland’s food, drink and horticulture sector achieved €19 billion in export value in 2025, marking the industry’s strongest performance to date. Despite global volatility, Irish producers delivered consistent growth. (Source: Export Performance and Prospects 2025 – 2026)

Headline export figures (2025)

Total exports: €19 Billion

Exports grew by 12% year-on-year, supported by strong pricing across key categories, particularly dairy and beef. Irish exporters demonstrated exceptional resilience in the face of inflation, shifting consumer behaviour and global market disruption.

 

Category performance

Dairy – €7.3 Billion (+14%)

  • Record year driven by improved market pricing and grass-fed production advantages.
  • Butter exceeded €2 billion for the first time.
  • Cheese exports grew 19% to reach €1.7 billion.

Meat & livestock – Over €5 Billion (+18%)

  • Significant price-led growth across beef and live exports.
  • Strong demand underpinned by Ireland’s recognised quality and sustainability standards.

Prepared Consumer Foods – €3.6 Billion (+9%)

  • Growth across beverages, chocolate, juices and meal solutions.
  • Exports to the UK alone increased by 10%.

Drinks – €2 Billion (+2%)

  • Irish Whiskey continues to lead the category, accounting for 45% of export value (~€930m).
  • Growth supported by expanding presence in Africa, Asia and premium EU markets.

Seafood – €635 Million (+9%)

  • Higher export volumes offset lower species returns.

Horticulture & cereals – €330 Million

  • Stable performance with growth driven by mushroom exports.

 

Why source food and drink from Ireland?

  • Grass-based production delivering natural quality and taste.
  • Origin Green, Ireland’s national food and drink sustainability programme, brings participating farms and businesses together under programme requirements for target-setting, reporting and verification.
  • Reliable global supply chains with rigorous traceability.
  • Diversified market reach spanning 140+ countries.

Ireland’s performance reflects a world‑class agri-food sector built on integrity, innovation and long-term partnerships with global buyers.