Reopening of Chinese market for Irish beef welcomed by Westmeath Minister
It was announced today that Irish beef exports to China are set to resume.
The Chinese market had been closed for Irish beef producers since September 2024, following the discovery of a case of BSE in a cow in Ireland.
The General Administration of Customs in China has now confirmed the reopening of access to the Chinese market for beef produced in Ireland.
The development has been welcomed by politicians in the Midlands, including Westmeath TD and Minister of State Robert Troy.
"The confirmation today that the Chinese market will reopen for Irish beef is a very important and positive development in our bilateral agri-food trade with China," said Minister of State Troy.
"This decision, which directly follows hugely positive engagement from An Taoiseach Micheál Martin during his visit to China last week reflects the confidence of the Chinese authorities in the robustness, transparency, and effectiveness of Ireland's animal health, traceability, and food safety systems.
"This reflects a culmination of intensive political, diplomatic and official engagement since the market was temporarily suspended in September 2024.
"Ireland’s beef production is underpinned by comprehensive surveillance, strict regulatory oversight, and internationally recognised standards, ensuring high levels of food safety and consumer protection," the Westmeath Fianna Fáil representative added.
"I look forward to the resumption of beef exports to China and to the continued constructive cooperation with the Chinese authorities to further strengthen agri-food trade between Ireland and China in a mutually beneficial manner."
Also welcoming the news Barry Cowen, the Midlands North West MEP from Offaly, noted that Irish beef exports were already performing strongly, with overall exports up 7% year on year.
He said that the reopening of the Chinese market will further support this growth by giving exporters access to one of the world’s largest and most valuable consumer markets.
"In an increasingly uncertain global trading environment, diversification of markets is essential," he said. "Securing and maintaining access to key destinations like China gives our farming sector greater stability and protects rural livelihoods."