From Unison.ie

IRISH food and drink exports topped €8bn for the first time in 2006, rising by 10pc compared with 2005, according to export performance figures compiled by Bord Bia.

The increase of €756m to €8.1bn significantly out-performed merchandise exports. The food body said the jump in exports was achieved despite a strong euro exchange rate against the US dollar and competitive pressures in major export markets.

Bord Bia chief executive Aidan Cotter described the performance as "exceptional" and said the results highlighted the importance of brands in underpinning industry success. This is reflected in the dramatic growth achieved by Goodfella's Pizzas and Magners cider in the UK, where these two products were the top two-performing grocery brands.

Beef exports rose by 20pc, the fifth successive year of increased exports, helped by particular success in penetrating continental EU markets. The dairy sector recorded export growth of 6pc and Bord Bia said that exports to Asia were expected to exceed €300m for the first time this year, driven by growth in China.

Some sectors performed well below average, however. Edible horticulture and cereal exports fell by 10pc in 2006, reflecting a strongly competitive UK mushroom market and a slowdown in cereal exports. Furthermore, market penetration of the UK mushroom market fell to 1.6pc.

Jim Aughney