UK SOFT fruit exports have soared to a record breaking £22.1m in 2018, up from £13m in 2017.
The UK has opened its markets to 12 international buyers in 2018, which resulted in a 69% rise in exports to international markets, with blackberries, strawberries and raspberries being some of their most popular soft fruits.
Over the past five years, the demand for UK soft fruit has risen consistently, with the total value of exports rising by £16.8 million – an increase of more than 300% since 2013.
Speaking at the Fruit Focus Show in Kent on Wednesday, July 17, farming minister Robert Goodwill said: “For soft fruits, the proof is in the pudding with exports having risen dramatically in the last year. This clearly shows the global demand for delicious, British-grown produce.”
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