Exports Snapshot: H1 2020

Export statistics

Food and drink exports are a UK success story. However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted growth after exports fell for the first time since H1 2015.
Exports fell by 13.8% to £9.7bn, as both exports to EU and non-EU markets declined.
Exports to the EU (-14.5%) decreased at a faster rate than those to non-EU markets (-12.6%).
The trade deficit widened, reaching -£13.4bn, from £12.8bn in H1 2019.
Exports to all of the top 20 markets decreased, except China (+0.3%), Canada (+6.7%) and Norway (+46.9%).
Pork was the only product within the top 10 to show value growth, up 17.5% on 2019.
Since H1 2010, exports have increased by 34%. Exports to non-EU countries grew faster (59%) than to the EU (21%).
Members noted access to new UK preferential trade agreements and increased export demand as top pportunities for 2020 in FDF's Q2 Business Confidence Survey.
FDF, Food and Drink Exporters Association (FDEA) and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) have produced an export guide to help businesses successfully navigate the export process.
The guide signposts a range of support that can help exporters impacted by COVID-19 as well as supporting businesses post EU Exit transition.