Britain allocates nearly five billion pounds annually for Spanish fruit and vegetables, including Mallorcan new potatoes. British tourists contribute 13 billion euros to Spain's economy through tourism. However, Spain's agricultural sector also generates billions.
Spain remains crucial for the UK's food supply, being the primary source of fresh produce. Approximately 25% of vegetables imported to the UK originate from Spain, with lettuce imports reaching 80%.
The UK ranks as the fifth largest market for Spanish agri-food exports and is the largest non-EU recipient. In 2023, exports reached 4.82 billion euros, with Spain enjoying a 3.848 billion euro trade surplus. Key exports include vegetables (1.278 billion euros), fresh fruit (875 million euros), and wine (312 million euros).
Seven out of ten potatoes from Sa Pobla, Mallorca, are exported to Britain, supporting around 100 local jobs. Despite Brexit, Spanish exports to the UK have not declined.
Source: Majorca Daily