Farming incomes in England dropped by over £1 billion last year, according to recent government data.
Total Income from Farming (TIFF), a key indicator of the agricultural sector's performance, was estimated at £4.5 billion, down by £1.1b (-19%) from 2022.
This notable decline was primarily due to significant reductions in crop outputs, which were only slightly offset by a decrease in intermediate consumption (input costs), according to Defra.
In 2023, agriculture’s economic contribution in England was £10bn, a reduction of £1b (-8.7%) from 2022.
The data further reveals that total crop output in 2023 was £9.9b, a decrease of £1.5b (-13.1%) compared to the previous year.
Defra recognised the sharp drop in crop values to low commodity prices and poor yields.
Wheat experienced the most significant drop, with a reduction of £1.2b from 2022.
Total livestock output in 2023 remained at £12.4b, with a £380m increase in poultry output balancing out a £353m decrease in the value of milk.
Intermediate consumption in 2023 was £15b, a decrease of £0.4b (-2.6%) from 2022.
Defra noted that the value of most intermediate consumption items stayed stable, except for fertiliser, which saw a £337m decrease due to easing prices on the global market.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here