Re-opening of Chinese market to Irish beef is 'important opportunity for the Irish agri-food sector' - Sligo/Leitrim Minister

Sligo/Leitrim Minister Marian Harkin has welcomed the confirmation of the re-opening of the Chinese market to Irish beef, following the recent visit of An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, to China.

A statement to the Leitrim Observer said: "The announcement marks a significant and positive development in Ireland’s bilateral trading relationship with China and represents an important opportunity for the Irish agri-food sector."

Speaking today, Minister Harkin said the restoration of access to China is "a substantial step forward for Irish beef producers and processors and demonstrates the high level of confidence placed by the Chinese authorities in Ireland’s regulatory systems."

She stated that "Ireland’s world-class standards in food safety, traceability and animal health continue to underpin the country’s strong global reputation as a trusted supplier of premium-quality agri-food products."

She said: “The re-opening of the Chinese market is a clear endorsement of the robustness and integrity of Ireland’s agri-food systems,” Minister Harkin said. “It reflects the sustained efforts of farmers, processors and state agencies to maintain the highest standards, even in the face of challenging global conditions.”

READ MORE: Leitrim athletes with 'exceptional talent' need to be supported

Minister Harkin said that renewed access to the Chinese market will "provide support to Irish farmers and beef processors, helping to diversify export destinations and reduce reliance on individual markets."

The Minister also said the development will have a positive impact across rural Ireland, "supporting employment throughout the agri-food supply chain and contributing to the economic vitality of rural communities nationwide."

In addition, she said the re-opening will "strengthen Ireland’s overall export performance and further reinforce the State’s commitment to open, fair and rules-based international trade."

“This is a very important development for Irish beef exports and for Ireland’s broader global trading relationships,” Minister Harkin concluded. “I look forward to continued engagement with our international partners to build on this momentum and to further expand opportunities for Ireland’s agri-food sector.”