UK beetroot growers secure new US market access, enhancing export opportunities and strengthening post-Brexit trade relations for British food businesses.
British beetroot exporters are planting new roots in the United States, following a significant trade agreement. This milestone opens up lucrative opportunities for UK farming businesses to expand their reach and boost the economy post-Brexit.
A Milestone for British Agriculture
Securing access to the US market marks a pivotal moment for British beetroot exports.
After extensive negotiations between the UK and US governments, British beetroot growers can now export their premium produce to the United States, diversifying supply and meeting the growing demand for high-quality beetroot year-round.
Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security, highlighted the importance of this achievement:
“This Government was elected on a mandate to support our farmers in trade deals – that is exactly what we are delivering. This milestone marks a significant step forward for our beetroot farmers.”
“But this is only the start – over the coming weeks and months I will work tirelessly to back our British farmers and get our food exports moving again.”
Economic Impact and Growth Opportunities
Expanding into the US market is expected to have a substantial economic impact. Industry estimates suggest that this new access could generate approximately £150,000 per year in increased exports.
Moreover, the overall US beetroot supplement market is projected to reach $317.9 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.3%.
Projected Growth of Beetroot Markets
Market |
2023 Value |
Projected 2033 Value |
CAGR |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Beetroot Supplement Market | $317.9 million | $600 million | 8.3% |
| European Beetroot Powder Market | $474.7 million | $741.7 million | 4.6% |
| UK Beetroot Powder Market | N/A | Significant Growth | 8.4% (2024-2031) |
This expansion not only boosts direct beetroot exports but also opens avenues for processed beetroot products, such as supplements, catering to the US market’s increasing preference for natural health products.
Strengthening US-UK Trade Relations
The successful entry into the US market underscores the strengthening trade relations between the UK and the US post-Brexit.
Defra’s Agri-food attaché in the US played a crucial role in this achievement, working closely with British beetroot growers and industry bodies to navigate regulatory barriers.
Tom Bradshaw, NFU President, expressed his enthusiasm:
“It is great news that after many years of campaigning, British beetroot growers will have access to the market in the United States for the first time. Being able to access the US market, supplementing local production, will help to meet rising consumer demand for this healthy, nutritional crop, creating genuine growth opportunities for farmers and growers in the UK.”
Benefits for British Farming Businesses
British businesses, such as G’s Fresh, stand to benefit significantly from this development.
Graham Forber, Beetroot Product Director for G’s, stated:
“I would like to thank all involved in the assistance given to support our Love Beets beetroot development in the USA, in securing permission to import UK Beetroot. This will assist in our development and growth in processing beetroot in New York State while strengthening our supply across the USA.”
Advantages of US Market Access
- Diversified Supply: US processors can now source high-quality beetroot from the UK, ensuring a steady supply outside the local growing season.
- Increased Revenue: Enhanced export opportunities are projected to boost the revenues of British farming businesses.
- Market Expansion: Successful entry into the US sets a precedent for British agricultural exports to other international markets.
Looking Ahead
This agreement marks the starting point of a comprehensive strategy to boost UK agricultural exports. Consequently, Defra will eliminate non-tariff barriers through its initiatives, enabling British producers to access and succeed in international markets.
Furthermore, the collaboration between government bodies and industry leaders will continue to fuel growth, simultaneously opening up new opportunities for British food exports.
Ultimately, this synergy will pave the way for a stronger, more competitive UK agricultural industry.
The Takeaway
British beetroot growers can significantly impact the global market by capitalizing on the growing demand for beetroot-based products and leveraging their strong trade relations with the US.
This development not only supports the farmers but also contributes to the UK’s economic resilience and trade diversification efforts post-Brexit.
For more information on British beetroot exports and other UK agricultural initiatives, follow Defra’s updates and industry news through official channels.
Sources: THX News, FMI, KVB Research & Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
