In an preliminary response to the announcement of tariffs by US President Donald Trump, IFA (Irish Farmers’ Affiliation) stated the relative variations will affect the competitiveness of Irish merchandise on the US market, together with Kerrygold. The truth that New Zealand solely has a ten% tariff for dairy merchandise and the UK solely has a ten% tariff on drinks, whereas the EU may have 20% tariffs, will go away Eire at a aggressive drawback towards a few of its greatest opponents in these two sectors.
Eire exported circa €1.9 billion price of food and drinks merchandise throughout the Atlantic in 2024. The US market is a vital outlet and accounts for circa 11% of Eire’s whole food and drinks exports.
Inside the €1.9 billion determine, dairy at €830 million and drinks, predominantly whiskey, at €900 million account for 91% of what Eire exports. Eire additionally exports pigmeat (€23 million), beef (€8.8 million) and seafood (€3.8 million).
Kerrygold is now the second best-selling butter model within the US, the place nearly €500 million price of product was despatched in 2024. The market accounts for about 7.5% of Eire’s whole dairy exports.
