The value of Ireland’s agri-food exports increased by 65% over the 10-year period of 2014 to 2024, according to a new report from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).

While many of the details from this report have been released in recent months, today (Monday, November 19) marks the official publication of the department’s Annual Review and Outlook for 2024 by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon.

The report notes that Irish agri-food exports achieved a record value of €19 billion in 2024, a 5% increase by value on 2023 and representing a 65% increase since 2014, reaching over 190 markets worldwide and accounting for 8.6% of Irish goods exported.

The report said that the agri-food sector employed 169,300 people in 2024 as a main occupation, representing 6.1% of total employment or 1 in 16 jobs nationwide, although this proportion is much higher in rural and coastal areas.

According to the department, the Irish agri-food sector “demonstrated its resilience, innovation and adaptability” in 2024 and continued to develop new market opportunities.

The report noted that demand for animal protein on international markets is increasing with population, urbanisation and affluences, and the Irish agri-food sector's export focus means Ireland is well placed to play a role in meeting this demand.

In 2024, Irish agri-food exports were exported to over 190 countries, with dairy valued at €6.5 billion, beef at €3.1 billion and beverages at €2.2 billion.

As is typically the case for Irish agri-food exports, the UK was the biggest destination in 2024, with 38% of Irish exports going there. This was followed by the US (10%), the Netherlands (9%), France (6%), Germany (6%) and Italy (3%).

Farming sector

The Irish farming sector is responsible for 4.6 million hectares of agricultural land and over 808,000ha of forestry, representing some 76% of the total land in the state.

Commenting on the newly-published report, Minister Heydon said: "Agri-food is Ireland’s oldest and largest indigenous exporting sector, driving economic growth across the country and supporting thousands of jobs throughout our rural and coastal communities, as well as our villages, towns and cities.

"Having a strong evidence base to inform discussion, policy and sectoral planning is central to the continued and effective sustainable development of the Irish agri-food sector for the benefit of current and future generations," the minister added.

"The data, analysis and commentary provided by the Annual Review and Outlook is a valuable and comprehensive source of information on the sector and showcases the diversity and range of sectoral activities and achievements throughout 2024 and into 2025," Minister Heydon said.

Also commenting, Minister of State with responsibility for food promotion, new markets and research and development Noel Grealish said: "The Irish agri-food sector has continued to thrive on the world stage in 2024 and into 2025, remaining agile, resilient and competitive in responding to both the opportunities and challenges of the global market.

"The sector continues to build on its world-renowned reputation and strives to ensure its ongoing success into the future," Minister Grealish added.