An international export programme for food and drink companies based in Wales has undertaken an online trip to South Korea.

The Welsh Government’s Food and Drink Export Cluster Lead Generation programme is designed to set up companies that are interested in exporting with buyers and distributors by product category. It will be aiming to help develop partnerships with chosen target markets in Japan and, for the first time, Taiwan and South Korea.

Beginning on 21st June, the programme sees 15 Welsh companies taking part in a virtual visit to South Korea. Eighty meetings have been planned throughout the week with 28 buyers. Product samples have already been sent overseas in advance of the event. Visits to Japan and Taiwan took place earlier in the year.

One of the companies taking part is Cradoc’s, producers of vegan and vegetarian friendly savoury biscuits. Owner Allie Thomas said:

“There is no easier market than the one on our doorstep, but that is not available to us, therefore we need to do what we have to in order to access new markets.

“We are a small company and are thankful to the Welsh Government for giving us this opportunity, and for the many meetings they have managed to arrange for us. I am very excited to see how it will work and look forward to dialling in next week to talk with potential buyers – and hopefully making some deals.”

Minister for rural affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd, Lesley Griffiths MS said: “Virtual trade visits are a great way for many of Wales’ food and drink companies to showcase their excellent products and capabilities to international audiences in a format that is suited to the current climate.

“This is the third virtual visit in this export cluster programme the Welsh Government has supported and provides businesses with a chance to explore accessing new markets. I wish them every success.”