A MAJOR potato export deal with Ukraine is being hailed a great news for farmers in the Borders and will be a ‘real game-changer’ for the Scottish seed potato industry according to an industry leader.

The announcement was made by International Trade Secretary, and MP for Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Anne-Marie Trevelyan at the National Farmers’ Union Conference yesterday.

The potato industry is worth approximately £113m to UK farmers and employs around 11,740 people.

Ukraine is the second largest consumer of potatoes in the world.

Central Plains Group, a Scottish-based farming company, has boosted exports of specialist equipment and potato seeds after receiving a £2.2m package from UK Export Finance, a ministerial department of the UK Government.

And CEO Mark Laird said that it would do a significant amount to open up Ukraine for the Scottish seed potato industry.

He said: “This deal is a real game-changer and will do a significant amount to open up Ukraine for the Scottish seed potato industry. Its been fantastic working with UK Export Finance and Credit Agricole to support bringing UK equipment to our farming operations in Ukraine and uphold our highest standards for premium potato production.”

Borders MP John Lamont welcomed the news which he believes will be important to the farming community in the region.

He said: “This export deal is great news for farmers here in the Borders and across the UK. This deal by the UK Government opens up the second biggest potato market in the world to our seed potato producers. To hear industry leaders calling it ‘game changing’ really shows how important this could be for our farming industry. Striking trade deals across the world will help to create jobs, boost economic growth and showcase our products on the global marketplace.”

Ms Trevelyan said: “The level of investment into Scottish exports is at an all-time high and there are fantastic opportunities for our agricultural producers to export around the world. The UK agricultural industry should be proud of the standard of goods it develops, which are in demand globally.

“This deal is an example of what international collaboration can deliver: helping the Scottish potato sector to thrive, support production and jobs in Ukraine, and showcase the best of UK agricultural equipment. I hope that farmers and food producers alike recognize the huge potential.”