Meat and livestock exports increased by 18 per cent to just over €5bn, driven by significant price increases in beef and live exports. Tight supplies of cattle across Ireland and key markets led to a surge in beef prices but reduced export volumes. Dairy exports rose by 14 per cent to €7.3bn, supported by improved dairy prices in the first half of the year, and a strong grass-growing season throughout which boosted milk production. Export volumes (excluding milk and cream) increased by 12 per cent, with butter and cheese accounting for the majority of value growth. Commodity prices across several key export categories declined sharply during the autumn months.
Prepared Consumer Foods (PCF) exports grew by 9 per cent to €3.6bn, aided by strong performance in chocolate confectionery, juices, carbonated beverages and meal solutions, and a 10 per cent increase in exports to the UK. Drinks exports recorded a marginal increase of 2 per cent to €2bn, despite shifting trade dynamics, particularly in the US market.
Seafood exports rose by 9 per cent to €635m, as a significant increase in volumes offset weaker returns for many species, however the sector faces increased challenges ahead as quotas look set to be significantly reduced for some species. Horticulture and cereals exports increased marginally to €330m, with mushroom exports edging higher, while cereals values declined due to lower global prices.
Launching the report, Bord Bia chief executive, Jim O’Toole welcomed the sector’s strong performance against an exceptionally challenging global trading environment. “Last year can be described as one of the most volatile years our sector has experienced in recent memory. Yet, against this backdrop, the Irish food, drink and horticulture industry reached a record €19 billion in exports, demonstrating its ability to continue building value even in turbulent conditions. By investing in strategic insight, sustainability and trusted customer relationships, the sector is moving beyond volume-led growth and positioning itself to deliver greater value in global markets. This progress has been achieved despite ongoing volatility across trade, consumer sentiment and climate conditions, which shows little sign of easing.”
Commenting on the export figures, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon said: “I am pleased to see that when the estimated €2.2bn in non-edible agri-food products is added to Bord Bia’s estimated €19bn export value of Irish food and drink, resulting in total agrifood exports of €21.2bn, that there was an overall estimated increase of 11 per cent in the total Irish agri-food exports in 2025 when compared to 2024. Given all the challenges facing the industry, this is a significant achievement.”
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Noel Grealish also noted the positive performance in face of challenges. “Geopolitical events have led to supply chain pressures and increased volatility in recent years. Despite these challenges the Agri-Food sector has shown great resilience. As well as these positive export figures, there has been an overall improvement in output prices and in family farm incomes in the past year. While there is market uncertainty associated with the outlook for 2026, global demand for high-quality food and animal protein is increasing with population, urbanisation and affluence. There are many people who are involved in making the sector as successful as it is, but it all begins from the actual production of food. So, I want to thank all who work hard in contributing to this – farmers, fishers, food and drink producers. In 2026, we need to continue to work together in facing and adapting to challenges, as we strive to maintain success for all actors across the sector.”