by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Kent farmers will play their part in feeding a global population that is set to increase by a third by 2050, the environment secretary told them at the county show today.

Caroline Spelman said that by 2030, the world will need at least 40% more food, 45% more energy and 30% more water.

"We know that the global population is set to increase by a third by 2050. By 2030, the world will need at least 40% more food, 45% more energy, and 30% more water, and this will need to be produced in a way which impacts less on the environment."

It was the most important issue facing this generation, she said. "More food must be grown – in a way that is sustainable. Here in the UK, increasing the competitiveness, resilience and sustainability of the whole food chain is a vital part of building a new, green economy."

Kent farmers could be proud of their achievements - and led the way in providing traditional produce and innovations, she added.

The year had been challenging for many. "The drought earlier this spring, the late frosts and now all the rain means that harvests will be variable. It's possible that the apple and pear harvest could be down 20%. But I know that you will be taking the best possible approach to dealing with these problems."

The government wanted the sector to grow and flourish, to support rural-based food businesses and encourage the creation of local food hubs.

The total value of agricultural production in Kent is more than £534m, with around a third of all the fruit produced in England grown Kent, a figure that rises to 40% for apples and pears.

The county's 4,700 farmers employ more than 13,000 people, 4.5% of the total agricultural workforce for England.

She singled out strawberries for Wimbledon, wine for the Olympics and the county’s "tasty" apples, including newer varieties such as Jazz, Braeburn and Royal Gala.

The three-day county show opened earlier today and continues until Sunday.