A new expert group is to be set up to formulate a long-term plan for the development of the Northern Ireland food sector.

British agriculture and economy minister Mr Ian Pearson announced the move as part of plans to develop a comprehensive food industry strategy for the North.

"The food sector is a major part of the Northern Ireland economy, worth over £850 million (€1,223 million) annually and involving 52,000 jobs," he said.

"The group, which will be announced shortly, will be made up of senior expert figures from different parts of the food chain and also include consumer interests.

"It will have a clear brief to report to ministers by next autumn on the development of the sector and how support arrangements can be optimised and consolidated."

Mr Pearson said the work of the expert group would be fully supported by the departments of Agriculture and Enterprise, as well as Invest Northern Ireland.

"Through the Food Strategy Group a unique opportunity exists to bring together senior figures from all sectors of the agri-food industry to provide complementary expertise to drive and advise on a new strategic vision for the future development of the Northern Ireland agri-food sector," he said.

The minister said the work of the expert group would bring major benefits to consumers, producers and retailers in the North.