DKK 203.2 billion. That’s the precise value of Danish exports of food, feed and seeds as well as agricultural machinery in 2024. This is the fourth increase in four years and 16 per cent more than in 2021, when the cluster’s exports totalled DKK 173.5 billion.

"This marks a significant milestone for the sector and clearly shows that the Danish food cluster remains robust and adaptable in a changing global market,” says Flemming Nør-Pedersen, Vice-CEO of the Danish Agriculture and Food Council.

Exports to the near market remains the largest

Although Germany is the Danish food cluster’s largest market, exports fell by 3.6 per cent to DKK 32.3 billion in 2024. However, other key markets posted growth. Exports to Sweden increased by 1.5 per cent to DKK 17.3 billion, Norway by 13.5 per cent to DKK 11.7 billion and the UK by 3.8 per cent to DKK 13.6 billion despite the new import regulations introduced in January 2024.

"Rising prices, considerable uncertainty and low growth represented challenges for the German economy in 2024, which is reflected in the food cluster’s exports to the country. But even though there has been a decline in some markets, it’s to be welcomed that others have grown. We have seen substantial demand from the UK, for instance, despite new import regulations following their exit from the UK,” adds Flemming Nør-Pedersen.

Growth in exports of agricultural machinery and feed as well as seeds and enzyme products

The cluster’s exports range from cheese, meat and other food products, bio-based products as well as agricultural machinery. In fact, these products have had a marked impact on growth. Bio-based products, such as feed, seeds and enzymes, saw growth of 4.8 per cent to DKK 37.0 billion, driven by increased exports of feed and non-edible oil and fats. Agro-technology increased by 1.4 per cent to DKK 15.4 billion despite challenges in the European agri-industry due to increased exports of machinery to the food processing industry. 

"The fact that the food cluster reaches markets across the world year after year is not only evidence of a strong international demand for Danish food, but also of the ability of Danish food companies to develop and adapt to changing market conditions.  From high quality foods to bio-based solutions and advanced agro-technology, the export figures demonstrate that we are in a strong position – and we must continue to expand our position going forward,” says  Flemming Nør-Pedersen.

As regards the current tariff situation on exports from Denmark to the U.S., which also affects goods from the Danish food cluster, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council is urging members to keep calm.