Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture with responsibility for New Market Development and T.D. for Kildare South Martin Heydon last week led a significant agri-food trade mission to China and the Republic of Korea.
Both China and Korea are two high-value markets with significant potential for Irish exporters.
Minister Heydon said: “Ministerial-led trade missions offer a unique opportunity to promote the strengths of Irish agri-food produce. During my visits to Seoul and Shanghai I met with several commercial distributors and retailers of beef, dairy, seafood, and spirits alongside Irish suppliers, including companies based in Kildare. In order to secure the best returns for Irish farmers we need to have a diversified portfolio in the highest value markets.”
The trade mission comes after beef access was secured to the Korean market and restored to the Chinese market within the last year.
Commenting on the potential of the beef market in Korea, Minister Heydon said: “Securing access to this market has been the culmination of years of detailed diplomatic, political, and technical engagement. I am delighted to have played a part in opening this market as Korea is the fourth largest beef importer in the world.
“At present seven beef plants are approved for export to Korea and Irish beef is already on the shelves. Our focus now is to increase the number of approved plants which would include processor facilities here in Kildare. Part of the trade mission was engaging with the Korean authorities on the timing of a second technical inspection visit.”
Turning to the Chinese market the Minister added: “Following a period of suspension, Irish beef exports to China have resumed. The market conditions in China are challenging but Irish companies have been steadily regaining market share having maintained strong relations with Chinese distributers.
“Dairy exports were a major focus of my visit to Shanghai. Diversifying the category of Irish dairy exports to China has been a strategic focus of the Irish dairy industry. Adult nutrition is now a valuable market alongside infant formula.”
Minister Heydon also led a Spirit of Ireland event focused on promoting Irish drinks while in Shanghai and meet with the Seoul Racehorse Trainers Association while in Korea.
“Here in Kildare, we know the value of a vibrant equine industry and it was interesting to compare the Irish and Korean systems as well as support Irish feed and nutrient companies who are growing their share of that market”, concluded Minister Heydon.