International demand for British food and drink continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities for overseas retailers, wholesalers and distributors.
The UK Government recently announced that its global network of agri-food attachés has unlocked an estimated £80 million in new export opportunities during 2026. By removing trade barriers and simplifying export procedures, the network is helping more British products reach customers around the world.
For businesses interested in importing British food and drink, these developments demonstrate the UK’s continued commitment to international trade and could create access to an even wider variety of high-quality products.
New Markets Opening to British Products
Agri-food attachés are specialists based in important overseas markets. They work with governments, regulators and businesses to address the practical barriers that can prevent British products from being imported.
According to the UK Government, the network has already resolved 20 trade barriers during 2026. These successes include new or improved market access for:
- British cheese in Brazil
- Poultry and eggs in the United Arab Emirates
- Seafood in Kuwait
- Cookie dough in India
- Trout in China
- Processed animal protein in Indonesia
- Agricultural genetics in the United States
A streamlined export registration process introduced in China is also expected to save businesses approximately £50 million each year.
These developments follow the removal of 55 export barriers during 2025, estimated to be worth £127 million annually. This included improved market access for British pork in Mexico and fewer obstacles affecting dairy exports to Egypt. The complete announcement is available from the UK Government.
What Does This Mean for Overseas Importers?
Removing a trade barrier does not merely benefit British manufacturers. It can also provide overseas businesses with access to products that were previously unavailable or difficult to import.
Retailers and distributors may benefit from:
- A broader choice of British food and drink products
- Simpler product registration and approval processes
- Fewer administrative delays
- Improved supply opportunities
- Greater potential to introduce distinctive British brands to their customers
British food and drink enjoys a strong international reputation, encompassing established household brands, traditional favourites and innovative products developed for changing consumer tastes.
From ambient groceries, bakery products and confectionery to chilled and frozen food, the UK offers an extensive range suitable for supermarkets, independent retailers, hospitality businesses and specialist food distributors.
Importing British Food and Drink Still Requires Expertise
Although governments are working to remove barriers, international food and drink shipments remain subject to detailed requirements.
Documentation, product labelling, customs procedures, transport conditions and local regulations can vary considerably between markets. Importers must also consider shelf life, order quantities and the most appropriate form of freight.
Working with an established British food export company can make this process much more manageable.
Source British Products With Leverbrook Export
Leverbrook Export helps businesses around the world source and import British food and drink products.
As a family-run company with more than 50 years of experience, we understand the practical requirements involved in moving food and drink successfully from the UK to international markets. Our services include product sourcing, consolidation, documentation, labelling and translation, airfreight and seafreight.
Consolidation can be particularly valuable for importers wishing to purchase products from several British suppliers. Instead of arranging multiple individual shipments, products can be combined into a single consolidated order, helping to simplify logistics and make importing more cost-effective.
Whether you are an international retailer looking to expand your British product range or a distributor exploring new opportunities, our experienced team can help.
To discuss importing British food and drink, contact Leverbrook Export on +44 (0) 151 645 3517 or email info@leverbrook-export.co.uk.