Food and Drink Producers to Quiz Government on Export Action Plan

07 December 2016, 08:57 AM
  • UK manufacturers will get the opportunity to quiz environment secretary Andrea Leadsom on the government's plans to boost post-Brexit exports at the Food and Drink Exporters Association’s Network Forum on 14th December
Food and Drink Producers to Quiz Government on Export Action Plan

Andrea Leadsom will be briefing the delegates on the recently announced International Action Plan for Food and Drink, which is designed to boost the sector’s exports by £2.9bn.

Elsa Fairbanks, director at FDEA said, “Brexit has given food exporters a short-term boost due to the falling value of the pound. However, a recent FDEA survey showed our members are concerned that on-going economic uncertainty in the run-up to Brexit and further currency movements will make exporting more challenging.

“There are also questions around the government’s understanding of the complexities of food and drink exporting and how this will be managed if freedom of movement across the EU is not guaranteed in the sector’s biggest markets.

“They will be seeking reassurance from Mrs Leadsom about the details of the government’s action plan and what it will specifically mean for current and potential UK exporters.”

The Westminster-located forum is open to both members and non-members and offers a day of export advice to help food and drink businesses review and build an export strategy in the post-Brexit world.

Delegates will be able to learn more about exporting from seasoned exporters, including Walkers Shortbread, Clipper Tea and Propercorn.

Elsa Fairbanks added, “At the moment, our key piece of advice to exporters is to use the time in the run-up to leaving the EU to build strong relationships with existing and potential customers and to explore new markets around the world. Researching markets and cementing relationships now, will be key to securing future export business.”

For more information or to confirm your attendance visit ukfdea.com.

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