Teagasc Irish Agriculture & Food Development Authority

The Irish Agri-Food Industry

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food currently reports the agri-food sector in Ireland contributes a value of €24 billion to the national economy, generates 6.3% of gross value added and provides 7.4% of national employment. When employment in inputs, processing and marketing is included, the agri-food sector accounts for almost 10% of employment.

Contribution of the Agri-Food Sector to the National Economy

The agri-food sector is one of Ireland's most important indigenous manufacturing sectors, accounting for employment of 150,000 people. It includes approximately 600 food and drinks firms throughout the country that export to some 140 markets worldwide.

The agri-food sector (including agriculture, food, drinks and tobacco) accounts for around 8% of GDP with primary agriculture accounting for 3% of GDP.