UK food self-sufficiency declines as import reliance grows

A report by the National Farmers' Union (NFU) reveals that Britain is increasingly dependent on imported food as domestic production of most staple items has declined over the last 30 years. Self-sufficiency in 10 out of 11 key food categories has fallen since 1995, with notable drops in the production of wheat, oilseed rape, pig meat, and fresh vegetables.

While domestic production of poultry, eggs, and fresh fruit has increased, rising demand has outpaced growth, resulting in a smaller market share for home-grown products. Overall, imports of food and farming goods have risen by 70% compared to the mid-1990s, while export volumes have remained stagnant.

NFU President Tom Bradshaw attributed the decline to policy uncertainty, chronic underinvestment, and restrictive planning systems. He noted that the UK is becoming reliant on imports that may not meet the same standards required for domestic production. Additionally, farmers are facing significant challenges including drought, heatwaves, rising costs for fuel and fertilizer, and outbreaks of bluetongue disease.