UK food and drink trade deficit largest since 2000 at £21bn
Summary
The UK’s trade gap in food and drink has reached over £21 billion, the largest since 2000. Exports have fallen due to Brexit, conflicts in the Middle East, and US tariffs, while imports have increased, partly because of eased trade rules and tariff suspensions.Key Facts
- The UK’s food and drink trade deficit rose above £21 billion.
- Export volumes dropped by nearly 12% in the first half of 2026.
- Exports to the EU fell by 0.9% in value; exports outside the EU fell by 6.9%.
- Exports to the UAE dropped almost 25% due to the US-Israel war on Iran.
- A 10% US import tariff reduced UK food sales in the US by 16.5%.
- Food and drink imports hit 19.1 billion kg, the second highest ever.
- Imports from countries outside the EU increased by more than 20%, especially from Australia.
- Suspension of UK tariffs on some imported foods, like chocolate and biscuits, increased imports.
- Industry leaders warn this situation poses risks to UK food security and call for government support.
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