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SUSTAINABLE CORK PROGRAMME
Agriculture, Food & Drinks Agri-food remains Ireland’s largest indigenous sector. The food industry plays a major role maintaining employment and prosperity, forming the backbone of many communities in Cork and across Ireland. In the South West region 9.1% are at work in the agri-food and beverages sector (primary occupation)17.
Nationally, the industry has grown steadily over the last decade, culminating in â‚Ź13 billion of revenue from exports last year. The produce from the Irish food industry is enjoyed in over 180 countries worldwide.18 Cork plays a pivotal role in this success story through its rich food and drink ecosystem spanning agriculture, food processing and food production with many international food giants calling Cork home. Cork is also a critical research base for food innovation and has significant activities across both business and academia in the area.
