The UK’s food and drink trade deficit has risen to £21bn, the largest since 2000, driven by Brexit, Middle East conflict and US tariffs, according to industry leaders.
UK food and drink export volumes fell by 11.7% in the first half of 2026 to 4bn kg, only marginally above levels during the height of the Covid pandemic and after the 2001 foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, according to the Food & Drink Federation (FDF).
Exports to the EU fell by 0.9% in value, while exports beyond the EU dropped 6.9% in value, partly due to disruption in sales to the Middle East. Imports from outside the EU are up more than a fifth since 2023, with Australia sending 25% more in value terms to the UK than a year ago.
Why it matters
Rising imports and falling exports signal a growing reliance on foreign food sources despite calls for self-sufficiency.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether government responds to industry demands for stronger protection of domestic food production.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.