Ipswich has retained its crown as the number one port for UK agricultural exports for the 18th year in a row.

The latest statistics from the Department for Transport show the Port of Ipswich exported 631,000 tonnes of agricultural commodities in 2022 - 23pc of UK major ports’ market share.

It once again made it the top port for agricultural exports, beating London, Bristol and Great Yarmouth to reclaim the title.

Port owner ABP (Associated British Ports) said Ipswich's performance "reflects its key location at the heart of the Suffolk and North Essex agricultural community", and the region's role as the nation's breadbasket.

Paul Ager, divisional port manager for ABP, said: "It’s fantastic that we have seen continuously high agricultural export volumes, which have helped our port retain its top position as the UK’s number one export port for agricultural products.

"Our business plays an important role in supporting supply chains in East Anglia, and keeping agricultural products moving in support of local businesses and farmers in the region.  

"We are looking forward to maintaining this position for 2023 as we’ve had a record-breaking 2023 so far, having announced at the end of May 2023 that the port handled over one million tonnes of exports and imports since the start of the year – the first time the port has supported over one million tonnes of various products."

Julian Scott, general manager of Clarksons Port Services – Sentinel Terminal, added: "Following on from a successful 2022, we’ve also seen a very good start to 2023.

"Harvesting this season is having its challenges for farmers, compared to last season, with weather delays.

"However, grain quality in Suffolk and the surrounding counties is remaining good."

ABP’s East Anglian ports of King’s Lynn, Lowestoft and Ipswich handle more than three million tonnes of cargo in total every year, contributing an estimated £360m to the UK economy.