As of 2023, labour costs in the UK agriculture, forestry, and seafood sector were valued at 5.24 billion pounds. The forecast for the years 2024 to 2028 shows a steady increase in these costs, with expectations to reach 5.68 billion pounds by 2028. On a year-on-year basis, labour cost growth is approximately 1.7%, reflecting a consistent upward trend. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the five-year forecast period is projected to be around 1.7%, indicating a moderate but persistent rise in labour expenses.
Future trends to consider include the potential impact of technological advancements and automation on labour demand, regulatory changes affecting labour markets, shifts in immigration policy, and the possible effects of climate change on crop yields and related labour needs.