Andalucia brings Spanish produce closer to UK and Irish shelves

Andalucia has stepped up efforts to increase exports of fruit and vegetables to the United Kingdom and Ireland, according to Andalucía TRADE, (the public business agency of the Junta de Andalucía responsible for promoting international trade, investment and business development across the region). The agency says the aim is to increase sales of Andalucian produce in both markets, where demand for fresh fruit and vegetables remains strong.

In order to do so the the agency recently organised trade meetings in London and Dublin, bringing together nine Andalucian fruit and vegetable companies with 21 importers and purchasing centres. Held between May 20 and 23, the initiative generated more than 80 business meetings aimed at helping regional producers expand their presence in two of Europe’s most important fresh produce markets.

Strong position in key export markets

The UK and Ireland already represent significant destinations for Andalucian agricultural exports. According to Andalucía TRADE, the region accounted for 34 per cent of Spain’s fruit and vegetable exports to both countries in 2024, with sales valued at €833 million.

The trade missions provided participating companies with the opportunity to present their products directly to wholesalers, distributors and purchasing managers. Businesses from Almería, Sevilla, Málaga, Huelva and Granada took part in the programme, representing a range of conventional and organic produce.

Andalucia remains Spain’s largest exporter of fruit and vegetables, with overseas sales reaching €7.15 billion in 2024, equivalent to 36 per cent of the national total. Europe continues to be the sector’s primary destination, receiving approximately 98 per cent of exports.

Growing demand in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom remains one of the region’s most valuable overseas markets. Andalucía TRADE reported that the country accounted for 10.9 per cent of Andalucia’s global fruit and vegetable exports in 2024. During the London visit, participating companies received market briefings from officials at the Spanish Embassy and met representatives from businesses operating across the British fresh produce sector.

Particular attention was paid to the growing demand for organic products. Data cited by the agency showed that fresh organic produce represented 22.7 per cent of the UK’s organic food market in 2024, recording annual growth of 10.4 per cent. Consumer demand for fruit and vegetables also remains strong. Market figures referenced by Andalucía TRADE indicate that British consumers spent approximately $15.2 billion on fresh produce during 2024, reinforcing the UK’s importance as a destination for exporters.

Opportunities in Ireland

The second stage of the trade mission focused on Ireland, where Andalusian companies met importers and visited retailers and distributors in Dublin. According to Andalucía TRADE, Ireland’s reliance on imported fruit and vegetables presents opportunities for international suppliers. The Irish fresh produce market was valued at approximately €1.65 billion in 2024, with imported goods accounting for 83 per cent of sales.

The agency also pointed to changing trade patterns following Brexit. Some Irish importers have increasingly sought direct relationships with suppliers within the European Union rather than relying on British intermediaries, creating additional opportunities for exporters from Andalucia. For producers seeking to establish long-term commercial partnerships, Ireland offers a market with consistent demand and a strong dependence on imported agricultural products.

What people are asking

What does this mean for supermarkets and buyers in the UK?

The trade missions aim to strengthen direct links between Andalucia’s fruit and vegetable producers and UK importers, distributors and purchasing centres. If agreements are secured, UK supermarkets and buyers could benefit from a more stable supply of fresh produce and a wider range of sourcing options, particularly for seasonal and organic products.

What does this mean for the Spanish market?

For Spain, increased export activity supports one of the country’s most important agricultural sectors. Greater international demand can benefit growers and associated industries such as packaging, logistics and distribution. The focus on exports is intended to expand overseas sales rather than reduce domestic availability, reinforcing Andalucia’s role as a major production hub.

Why are the UK and Ireland important markets?

The UK and Ireland are already key destinations for Andalucia’s fruit and vegetables, accounting for €833 million in exports in 2024. The UK remains a major consumer market for fresh produce, while Ireland depends heavily on imported fruit and vegetables. Both markets offer strong demand and established trade links, making them strategically important for Andalucian exporters.

International expansion strategy

The London and Dublin trade missions is the start of an ongoing scheme to support the international expansion of Andalucia’s agricultural sector. Further promotional activities are planned throughout the year, including trade missions to Canada, Poland and Switzerland, as well as meetings with buyers from several European countries. The aim is to help businesses identify new customers while strengthening existing commercial relationships.

With demand for fresh and organic produce continuing to grow across international markets, Andalucian exporters will be hoping the contacts established during the latest trade missions translate into new agreements and increased sales in the months ahead. The UK and Ireland remain among the region’s most valuable export destinations, and the latest initiative reflects Andalucia’s efforts to maintain and expand its position within both markets.