coholic drink exports increased by 5% to £12.8 billion last year, according to recent figures.A report from the UK's Food and Drink Federation (FDF) showed that a massive 82% rise in exports to China during 2013 boosted the country's hopes an export-driven economic revival.
Exports to the EU increased by 3% with growth of 11.5% in non-EU markets. Companies such as the chocolate firm Thorntons, Jaffa Cakes maker United Biscuits and Typhoo Tea led the way.
A taste for Scottish salmon and British pork by China’s emerging middle classes contributed £33 million to the exchequer while Hong Kong’s imports of British lamb, crustaceans and salmon added £16 million.
Ireland and France still remain the UK’s biggest food and drink export markets by value, but China became the second largest non-EU market, with British pork exports up by 92% and Scottish salmon leaping 90%.
FDF director Steve Barnes said: “In contrast to UK goods exports falling in 2013, food and drink exports are back in growth, testament to the strong demand for quality British food and drink and the growing importance of export to our industry.
“The recovery of exports to key EU markets is particularly welcome news for food and drinks manufacturers as exports to the EU28 account for 75% of total export sales.”
The release of these figures comes just days after UK Chancellor George Osbourne outlined a raft of measures in the Budget aimed at revitalising exports, including an increase in the loans available to foreign buyers, up from £1.5 billion to £3 billion.
