The Minister discussed market opportunities with the fourteen Irish companies represented at SIAL and with the Bord Bia Paris office who work with the industry and with French chefs and buyers to match up the freshness, sustainability and taste qualities of Irish meat, dairy, shellfish and drinks products with the demands of discerning French consumers.
Commenting that France was still the leading continental export market for Irish food and drink products, Minister Smith emphasised that agri-food and seafood represent an Irish trading sector par excellence with 85 per cent of production being exported to over 160 countries worldwide. As an exporting nation Ireland must clearly articulate the identity and values of its food products and participation at events such as SIAL did that in a very direct way.
He concluded that exports of a range of products were showing signs of renewed dynamism and confidence, particularly in the drinks and seafood sectors, and that the industry could be proud of its ambition and determination to succeed.
France Leads Irish Export Market
IRELAND - Speaking at the SIAL International Trade Fair in Paris, Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food said he was delighted to see the 18th year of Irish participation in this world renowned fair, which is a magnet for excellence in food products.
