Killeen Welcomes Resumption Of Irish Pork Exports To China

The former Junior Agriculture Minister said the news would complement ongoing efforts within the Irish Agri Food sector to reach its full growth potential.

Minister Killeen noted that China is already a significant net importer of food and is developing rapidly.

"It is critically important, if the Agri Food sector in Ireland is to reach its full growth potential, that Irish Food Business Operators develop a presence in these markets, and establish the personal contacts at commercial and official level that are so necessary for developing new market opportunities", he said.

Minister Killeen added: "I would like to congratulate my colleague Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD, who has been instrumental in assuring the Chinese authorities of the enhanced controls now in place in Ireland."

The announcement marks the end of the interruption to trade that arose in late 2008 and could lead to a €20 million trade boost for the Irish Agri Food sector.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media ( @ ) dunphypr dot com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available to download from www.dunphypr.com

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