Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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455. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures in place to increase domestic production in areas where there is high import dependency. [67040/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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In 2024, agrifood exports reached a record €19 billion, an achievement which is a testament to the dedication of our farmers and fishers, food producers, processors, manufacturers and distributors.

The Irish agrifood sector has once again demonstrated its resilience, innovation and adaptability and continues to develop new market opportunities and thrive on the world stage. The sector is globally oriented, with approximately 90% of Irish beef, sheepmeat and dairy produce exported annually.

Demand for animal protein on international markets is increasing with population, urbanisation and affluence and the agrifood sector’s export focus ensures Ireland is well placed to play a role in meeting this demand.

Irish agrifood exports enjoy a deserved global reputation for excellence. In 2024, agrifood produce was exported to over 190 countries. Our three largest export categories by value were: Dairy, valued at €6.5 billion; Beef, valued at €3.1 billion; and Beverages, valued at €2.2 billion.

Agrifood imports were €13.9 billion in 2024 with a resulting Trade Balance (agrifood exports less imports) of some €5.1 billion. Agrifood sector trade is broken down into 22 categories and of these, Ireland has a positive trade balance for eight product categories: Dairy, Beef, Beverages, Pigmeat, Live Animals, Fish, Sheepmeat and Animal hides.

Of the remaining 14 categories, the top five import categories by value with a negative trade balance were Animal feed (14%), Cereal & cereal preparation (10%), Fruit and vegetables (8%), Coffee, tea, Cocoa, Sugar and Spices (7%) and Forestry and Wood Products (6%).

Food Vision 2030 sets out a clear roadmap for the sustainable development of the sector, with environmental, economic, and social sustainability at its core. Its ambition is for Ireland to continue to be a world leader in sustainable food systems.

The Food Vision 2030 Annual Reports 2022- 2024 and dashboard (available on my Department’s website) outlines the progress achieved, including:

• The work of the Food Vision Tillage Group, whose report highlights the significant role the tillage sector plays in Ireland’s food and feed security and our ambition to grow the sector.
• The National Strategy for Horticulture 2023 to 2027, which seeks to grow a more profitable value-added sector driven by sustainability and innovation.
• Ireland’s Forest Strategy (2023 – 2030) a shared national vision for the role of forests, and trees in Ireland’s future.