A new report by Bord Bia, Export Performance and Prospects 2020/21, confirmed that US tariffs and Brexit stockpiling, along with closures and restrictions on hospitality outlets globally due to the COVID-19 pandemic, negatively impacted drinks exports last year, which fell by 19% to €1.3 billion.
Drinks Ireland said that in addition to exports, COVID-19 also significantly impacted production and domestic sales in 2020.
According to the Bord Bia report, however, the value of alcohol exports last year remained 12% higher than they were pre-Brexit in 2016, highlighting the growth the industry has undergone in recent years and its strength on the global stage.
Patricia Callan, director of Drinks Ireland said: “Ireland’s drinks industry is dynamic, innovative, and has performed strongly in domestic and export markets in recent years."
"While 2021 will continue to be challenging for the sector, as it seeks to recover from the impact of the pandemic and navigates the challenges of Brexit, US tariffs and a range of other issues, it is resilient, and we are confident that it can regain some growth," she said.
Pre-2016 Levels
Callan highlighted that despite exports declining last year, for example, they remained at pre-2016 levels.
"Recovery is dependent on a number of factors and supports from the Government, including the full sustained reopening of the hospitality sector, a rebound in international tourism for visitor centres, and supports for Irish drinks exports,” she added.
In response to the Bord Bia report, Drinks Ireland has today released its industry outlook for 2021, stating that drinks producers will be focused on driving recovery this year.
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