Levy rate increase proposals for the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) have received approval from Ministers in Defra and the Devolved Administrations.

The beef and lamb, cereals and oilseeds, dairy and pork sectors will all see the new rates implemented from April 2024 after over 10 years of the levy remaining the same across all sectors. For dairy and pork, the levy has not changed for over 20 years.

ADHB said the spending power of levy funds over the past decade had been reduced by up to 40%, and said the increases would allow the trade body to “maintain its focus” on delivering the objectives set out in its Sector Plans.

Nicholas Saphir, who will serve a further 12 months as AHDB chair after receiving Government approval, said: “We are pleased Ministers have approved the proposals, which will ensure the levy continues to support the work AHDB has committed to prioritising for farmers and processors across all the sectors we serve.

“The new rates will allow us to enhance our key activity whether, for example, that involves growing export opportunities or exploring further marketing campaigns in the beef and lamb, dairy and pork sectors as well as increasing our research offering to cereals and oilseeds producers.

“Levy payers can be assured that our commitment to helping them navigate through an unprecedented period of change for the industry is secure and we will continue to listen to their feedback to ensure we are delivering real value for money.”