Government creates embassy jobs to grow UK agri-food exports

A network of new agri-food and drink roles will be created within UK embassies and consulates overseas to promote trade and boost exports.

The government has announced the new global positions as part of efforts to broaden market access for British producers and increase food and drink exports that were worth £21.7bn in 2020.

See also: Liz Truss: Let’s get British food to top of global menu

As well as posts in China, the US, India, Canada and Mexico, the agri-food attachés will be covering markets in the Gulf, Africa, South America and the Asia-Pacific region.

Ministers said existing attachés in China and the United Arab Emirates have been successful in driving export growth. Food and drink exports to the UAE were worth £257m in 2020.

Positive effect

Phil Hadley, AHDB international market development director, said: “The AHDB currently co-funds the agriculture counsellor position in China, which has played a significant role in supporting our export ambitions in the region for red meat and dairy products.

“We recognise the positive effect these roles have in adding value to growing exports in countries around the world.

“The AHDB looks forward to continue working collaboratively with government and industry to help ensure we maximise the global export potential for our produce.”

Nick von Westenholz, NFU director of business and trade strategy, said the new jobs gave the UK a much-needed voice overseas to promote British produce.

“The NFU has made it clear that this sort of additional resource is vital if we’re to compete effectively with farmers around the world and grow our export markets.

“We hope to see even more agricultural attachés appointed in the future, and in more countries, as the government continues to grow its export markets.”

Defra secretary George Eustice said the government wants people home and abroad “to be lining up to buy British”.

He added: “The support announced will enable our farmers and food and drink producers to take advantage of new opportunities and fly the flag for UK produce around the world.”

In February, the Department for International Trade announced a £2m “Open Doors” campaign to give UK food exports a push.

Working with the NFU, the Food and Drink Federation and the AHDB, the government said it would provide practical help for farmers and producers, including special exporting masterclasses and a new mentoring programme to help would-be exporters start selling internationally.