Equine and pig industries to fore as Coveney signs export deals with China

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney yesterday signed significant export protocol agreements with Chinese vice-minister Wei Chuanzhong.

One paper detailed rules for the establishment in Ireland of quarantine facilities for the transit of Irish horses direct to China. This will facilitate the direct export of horses to China and reduce, significantly, the costs associated with such exports.

Mr Coveney said: “The high veterinary and food safety controls in Ireland, which are recognised internationally, will help to continue to grow our exports of our bloodstock, agri-food, seafood, and related exports to China.

“We have much to offer the Chinese consumer and visits such as this one not only help Chinese officials to gain an on-the-ground understanding of Irish systems and controls, but also provides an invaluable opportunity to discuss common areas of interest at a political level, in an informal atmosphere.”

A protocol on the export of Irish porcine semen was also signed, facilitating for the first time the export of fresh porcine semen from Ireland to China.

Ireland is to the forefront in the development of genomics and pedigree breeding stock.

Mr Coveney said: “This agreement arises from the demand for superior porcine genetics in China and presents important trade opportunities for Ireland. China currently accounts for 50% of the world’s pig production.”

Pork is China’s meat of choice, accounting for nearly three quarters of its meat consumption. Half of the world’s pigs — some 476 million — live in China.

Mr Coveney said that detailed technical discussions took place between the Irish and Chinese delegates over the past two days on the control regime in place for the production of beef in Ireland.