Minister Noel Grealish promotes Irish agri-food in Mexico

Mr Grealish travelled to Mexico this week in light of the pending free trade agreement between Mexico and the EU, and to promote Irish agri-food

Minister of state Noel Grealish meeting Mexico's agriculture minister Julio Berdegué as part of his promotional visit for Irish agri-food in Mexico.

In light of the pending modernised free trade agreement between Mexico and the EU, food promotion and new markets minister Noel Grealish visited Mexico to promote Irish agri-food.

The three-day visit commenced with Mr Grealish meeting with Julio Berdegué of Mexico’s Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Their discussion focused on the forthcoming free trade agreement and further opportunities for bilateral collaboration, building on existing connections in the areas of fisheries, dairy and sustainable livestock.

Mr Grealish also met with Javier Calderón, director general of the National Service for Health, Safety and Food Quality, to discuss market access for Irish products, including pigmeat, dairy, animal byproducts and feed.

The minister also attended a roundtable, hosted by Irish ambassador to Mexico Ruairí de Búrca,
with key agri-food stakeholders, including Irish agri-food businesses active in Mexico such as Kerry Group, Ornua, Bimeda, Alltech, and representatives from the drinks sector.

Speaking from Mexico, Mr Grealish said: “With 2025 marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Mexico, I am delighted to hold key meetings in Mexico with a focus on the opportunities for our agri-food sector in this exciting market.

"I am confident that the Irish agri-food sector is well-placed to continue to grow in Mexico, and I look forward to future engagement with the Mexican government.” 

The delegation also travelled to Querétaro, an area which is home to a number of Irish businesses, including the Kerry Group, Bimeda, EPS solutions, BioAtlantis and the Irish Bakehouse.

Mr Grealish said: “I am pleased that progress is being made on some of our market access priorities for Mexico, and along with the embassy and my officials, I will continue to support Irish exporters to realise the opportunities presented in this country.”