Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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1550. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied in respect of markets for all beef and beef products in the post-Brexit era; the measures taken to find new markets if necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33814/20]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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My Department, together with Bord Bia and Ireland’s diplomatic network, works continuously to open new markets and enhance market access for Irish beef to markets outside the EU. Our approach to market development is a combination of targeted research, high-level diplomacy, consultation with important agri-food stakeholders and co-operation with officials in competent authorities abroad. This approach serves to make the most effective use of available resources and to maximise opportunities for market access.

Since the Brexit vote in 2016, this focus on market development has produced a number of notable achievements. Agreement has been secured for the export of beef to several new third country markets, including: China, Ukraine, Qatar, Kuwait and Barbados. Furthermore, during this period, enhanced beef access was agreed with the US, Hong Kong, Japan, Canada, Israel, Singapore, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.

The diversification of available markets for Irish beef exports is reflected in the latest available CSO trade figures; between 2016 and 2019, the value of Irish beef going to third country markets increased by nearly 65%, while their share of overall beef exports increased from 6% to over 10%. While the UK remains the biggest destination market for Irish beef, for sound market reasons, the growth seen in exports to third countries demonstrates the positive impact of my Department’s market development endeavours.

Gaining access for industry is usually the culmination of a lengthy process requiring sustained engagement with importing countries to build trust and confidence in our food production systems. My Department will continue to prioritise the development of overseas markets for Irish beef, which were worth €2.3 billion to the Irish economy in 2019.