'Chinese market represents a major opportunity for local producers'
The Northern Ireland agri-food industry has gained prominence after a government visit to China to discuss prominent agricultural trade between the two countries.
Food and Farming Minister Michelle McIlveen reinforced that message as she completed an agri-food trade mission to China during which she visited the cities of Beijing, Yangling, Xi’an and Shanghai.
The Minister fulfilled a schedule of engagements during the week-long mission, including attending the major Food Hotel China exhibition and meetings with the Chinese government and international trade representatives.
Speaking as she began the journey back to Northern Ireland, Miss McIlveen said: “The trade and cultural links between Northern Ireland and the People’s Republic of China are strong and growing, and this has been evident throughout my visit.
“Food Hotel China, held in Shanghai for the 20th time, is the proven platform for international food producers to gain a foothold in the Chinese market and the Northern Ireland companies attending and exhibiting certainly made a positive impression. With support from Invest Northern Ireland, local producers covering areas such as beverages, bakery, potatoes and rapeseed oil made high value initial contacts with potential Chinese buyers.
“There is no doubt that the Chinese market represents a major opportunity for local producers, many of whom are already doing significant business in China. I am committed to doing whatever I can to help boost existing trade links and establish new ones for Northern Ireland companies.
The Minister concluded: “It has been clear to me from the formal and informal meetings I have had over the past week that the Chinese regard our produce, with its traceability and unique provenance, very highly. I am confident that my visit has helped to boost Northern Ireland’s image in China and I look forward to the local agri-food sector continuing to build on its success here to date.”
Asian buyers are increasingly looking towards British produce, with British-reared pork and Jersey dairy just some of the recent interests that has galvanised the Asian markets.
