The value of Ireland's food, drink and horticulture exports increased by 12% in 2025 to reach a record €19 billion, according to Bord Bia’s latest report.
Total meat and livestock exports increased by 18% to just over €5 billion, driven by significant price increases in beef and live exports.
Irish beef exports exceeded €3.4 billion, up 24% year-on-year.
Tight supplies of cattle across Ireland and key markets led to a surge in beef prices but reduced export volumes.
Dairy exports rose by 14% to €7.3 billion, supported by improved dairy prices in the first half of the year, and a strong grass-growing season throughout the year which boosted milk production.
Export volumes (excluding milk and cream) increased by 12%, with butter and cheese accounting for most of the value growth.
Europe, the UK and North America were the main sources of growth for Irish dairy, together accounting for over 80% of butter export volumes and more than 85% of cheese exports.
Bord Bia described 2025 as a challenging year for prepared consumer goods, though exports in this category increased by 9% to €3.6 billion "despite pressures."
The growth was driven by strong performance in chocolate confectionery, juices, carbonated beverages and meal solutions, and a 10% increase in exports to the UK.
Drinks exports recorded a marginal increase of 2% to €2 billion, despite the introduction of 15% tariffs by the US administration on certain Irish exports.
Seafood exports rose by 9% to €635m. Salmon exports were valued at an estimated €110m, up 7% year-on-year, supported by a 16% increase in volumes.
Exports to the European Union increased strongly by 16% in 2025 to €7.1 billion, accounting for 37% of total Irish food, drink and horticulture export value.
The UK remained Ireland’s largest single export destination, with export values rising by 14% to €6.7 billion, representing 35% of total exports.
Bord Bia's chief executive Jim O’Toole called 2025 "as one of the most volatile years our sector has experienced in recent memory."
He added that the Irish food, drink and horticulture industry demonstrated "its ability to continue building value even in turbulent conditions."
Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon called last year's export figures "a significant achievement" as he vowed to support farmers, fishers and food companies amid the ongoing challenges of 2026.
