UK food and drink exports fall 11.7% in first half of 2026

UK food and drink exports fell by 11.7% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to data from the Food & Drink Federation (FDF). Total export volumes reached approximately four billion kg, marking the third lowest level since the turn of the century.

The decline is attributed to several geopolitical and economic factors. Post-Brexit border friction has impacted shipments to the EU, with exports to Ireland and France falling by 4.9% and 4.6% respectively. Non-EU exports dropped by 6.9%, driven in part by Middle East instability, which saw exports to the UAE plunge by 23.4%. Additionally, a 10% tariff in the US contributed to a 16.5% decline in export values to that market.

While exports have slumped, food and drink imports have reached their second-highest level on record. This has resulted in a trade deficit of £21.1bn, the highest level since 2000. FDF Chief Executive Karen Betts noted that rising costs for energy, ingredients, and logistics, combined with changing regulations, are placing significant pressure on manufacturers and raising questions regarding food security.