UK horticulture expansion could generate £1.9bn and boost food security

A new report by Green Alliance suggests that expanding domestic horticulture in the United Kingdom could generate £1.9 billion for British producers and raise food self-sufficiency to 66%, a level not seen since 2000.

To achieve this, the report estimates that only 46,509 hectares of land—approximately 0.3% of UK farmland—would be required. The expansion aims to replace half of the fruit and vegetables currently imported. Currently, the UK relies on imports for 86% of its fruit and 44% of its vegetables. The analysis notes that domestic production has declined by 16% since 2015.

Green Alliance argues that increasing homegrown production would protect the food system from international supply shocks caused by extreme weather and conflict in regions like Morocco and southern Spain. The report highlights indoor production and glasshouses as vital components, noting that 68% of the projected additional farmgate value would stem from new indoor systems, which provide year-round supplies and protection from volatile weather.