THE UK dairy industry is ready to fully exploit dairy trade opportunities across the globe and strengthen its position as a global dairy player.

At a breakfast seminar with leading politicians, Dairy UK – a trade association that represents the interests of producer co-ops, milk processors, dairy farmers and bottle milk buyers – outlined the sector’s potential for global growth.

It summarised the potential consequences of the Brexit negotiations, stressing that exports are a crucial part of developing and strengthening the dairy industry.

In a briefing document for MPs, it said the industry’s path to global success relies on maintaining uninterrupted access to the EU market; protecting existing trade agreements; developing new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs); avoiding border issues in Ireland; and working with Defra for optimal results on health certificates, inspection visits and promotion of the UK brand.

Neil Parish, chairman of the Efra Select Committee, said: "The Brexit referendum set the country on an unexpected course. The negotiations with the European Union will be complex, however food and drink exports are a crucial part of our economy and we must make sure the Government uses all of its resources to promote and boost trade.

"As a life-long champion of the UK dairy industry, I am anxious to protect its interests. The food and farming sector must make itself heard and I welcome Dairy UK’s initiative to showcase the industry’s achievements in dairy exports and to highlight what we can and must do to support it in the coming years."

Dr Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK, said: "With global demand for dairy expected to grow by around two per cent per annum over the next 10 years, the UK has a unique opportunity to step up, unlock new markets and increase dairy exports across the globe.

"In spite of the uncertainty created by the Brexit negotiations, the UK dairy industry is ready to rise up to the challenge and strengthen its position as a global dairy player."