South West businesses exported more than £850million of food and drink in the last financial year.
There was a surge in companies from the region trading with Singapore, with exports of local produce growing by 31 per cent since March 2018, according to the latest figures from HMRC.
The largest growth over the period was drinks produced in the South West, which increased by 17 per cent to more than £134million.
Food minister David Rutley said: “It is fantastic to see the growing appetite for the South West’s quality produce in markets such as France, Spain and Singapore.
“The region’s food and drink exporters are playing a vital role in boosting our reputation across the world.
“Britain is a key player on the global food and drink stage, and these latest figures show that businesses in the South West are more than playing their part in this success.”
In the first three months of 2019 the UK’s food and drink exports were valued at £5.7billion.
Paul Shand, the Department for International Trade’s head of trade in the South West, added: “Now’s the time for South West businesses to step into the spotlight and put their goods on the table.”
The South West has international trade advisors in the region and staff in more than 100 countries to provide advice on issues including local taxes and labelling.
Food and drink brands looking for trade advice should contact 01275 370 944 or email DITsw@mobile.trade.gov.uk.
Businessess can also visit great.gov.uk, which lists a variety of export opportunities.
