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The first increase in US interest rates in almost 10 years may lead to trouble in emerging markets.

Food exports grew 2.1% in 2014 and are expected to increase further in 2015.

Despite decreasing sales, businesses' equity strength remains good in this sector, but larger groups and producing companies are usually better capitalised than wholesalers or retailers.

Due to the weaker exchange rate and increased demand from overseas markets, Dutch food exports increased in 2015 and are expected to rise further in 2016.

Profitability of food producers has increased in 2014 and is expected to remain stable in 2015.

The Irish food sector has benefited from the weaker euro, the rebound of the Irish economy and growing consumer confidence.

Prices for food have grown and local production has increased in order to subsitute lacking imports.

The average payment duration in the Spanish food industry is 70 days.

Food business insolvencies are expected to increase by about 15% in 2015.

Profit margins of food businesses in the United States are expected to remain stable in 2016.