07 October 2016
Milk and apple orchards are both on the rise in Jersey’s agricultural sector but potato exports were slightly down, according to 2015 figures.
The Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture Department and the Department for the Environment have released the Agricultural Statistics report for 2015. It shows a mixed picture for the sector, with rises in flower exports, organic outdoor crops and milk and apple orchards but a slight fall in Jersey Royal potato exports.
The amount of agricultural land used for fruit production (soft, cane and other fruit) increased by 12 per cent, mainly due to demand for cider apples for cider and spirit production. 275 vergées of land was used for orchards last year – up 17% since 2014 and up 56% since 2011.
Export markets
Jersey Dairy continued to develop export markets for value added products in countries such as India, Hong Kong and Japan, despite overproduction in world milk supplies. The dairy industry showed an increase in milk production last year as a result of improved genetics in the Island herd and is in a good position to increase export sales when the market picks up.
Jersey Royal potatoes suffered from poor weather conditions and increased competition from other areas. Exports of Jersey Royals fell from 31,400 tonnes to 29,700 tonnes, with a drop in value from £29m to £27.5m. Overall, total vegetable exports fell from 33,500 tonnes to 31,100 tonnes with a drop in value from £31m to £29m.
The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Senator Lyndon Farnham said “It is a mixed picture for 2015, but I’m pleased that improved genetics in the Jersey herd have increased production and that Jersey Dairy’s in a good position to increase sales when the conditions are right.”
The Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce said “It’s been a difficult period for farmers, but we recognise their fundamental influence on the Jersey landscape and their important contribution to island life. We continue to work closely with the industry to support efforts to change, grow and develop sustainably.”
Link to the Agricultural Statistics report for 2015
gov.je