Irish Food & Drink Exports to MENA Hit €546.9M; Bord Bia Reports Strong Growth

Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, has announced that Ireland’s food and drink exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) reached an impressive €546.9 million in 2024. This milestone underlines the growing significance of the MENA region as a core destination for Ireland’s agri-food exports.

MENA Recognized as a Key Growth Region

The Middle East and Africa remain vital growth markets for Irish exporters. This was reaffirmed through Bord Bia’s second annual CEO Pulse Survey, which gathers input from leaders of Ireland’s top food and drink companies. These firms collectively represent close to €11 billion in exports — nearly two-thirds of Ireland’s total food and beverage export value.

Majority of Exporters Expect Growth in 2025

According to the survey, 56% of respondents anticipate export growth in the Middle East and Africa in 2025. Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges and global economic uncertainties, Irish exporters remain optimistic about the opportunities these markets present.

“Irish food and drink companies continue to see the Middle East and Africa as high-potential markets,” said Kieran Fitzgerald, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at Bord Bia. “The scale of export performance in 2024, paired with strong sentiment from exporters, highlights Ireland’s growing reputation as a provider of trusted, high-quality food and drink solutions for the region.”

Demand, Sustainability, and Trade Ties Driving Expansion

Bord Bia noted that rising consumer demand, a strong emphasis on sustainability, and increasingly robust trade relationships are helping Ireland strengthen its position across the region. These factors are seen as central drivers of the sector’s continued expansion.

Adaptability and Investment Fuel Market Success

Ireland’s positive export outlook is rooted in the adaptability of its exporters. Many companies have committed to long-term strategies in the region, including forging local partnerships, customizing products for regional tastes, and implementing targeted market entry approaches, positioning them for sustained growth in MENA markets.

“The Middle East continues to represent a key growth market for Ornua, with rising demand for high-quality, innovative dairy solutions across the region,” said David Butler, Managing Director, Ornua Ingredients International. “Our investment in Saudi Arabia underlines our long-term commitment to the region, enabling us to strengthen local partnerships, respond more quickly to customer needs, and deliver market-specific solutions. With its strategic location and strong trade ties, Saudi provides an ideal base from which to support our customers and expand our presence across the wider MENA market.”