UK food and drink trade deficit largest since 2000 at £21bn

The UK's food and drink trade deficit has reached its highest level since 2000, hitting £21bn. Industry leaders attribute the decline in exports to Brexit, US tariffs, and regional conflicts in the Middle East.
Why it matters
The widening trade gap raises concerns about national food security and the economic impact of post-Brexit trade policies.
Brexit, war in the Middle East and US tariffs have all dented deliveries overseas while imports of food and drink have soared. Brexit, war in the Middle East and US tariffs have all dented deliveries overseas while imports of food and drink have soared. Food & drink industry UK food and drink trade deficit largest since 2000 at £21bn Industry leaders call on government to protect homegrown produce in the interest of national security
Prefer the Guardian on Google The gap between Britain’s food and drink exports and imports has neared its highest this century, as a combination of Brexit , war in the Middle East and US tariffs dented deliveries overseas while imports soared.
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