After extensive technical and diplomatic negotiations, the Chinese market is now open for the export of Portuguese table grapes. This is the first phytosanitary agreement reached with the Chinese authorities, opening another growth opportunity for the national fruit and vegetable sector. The export of the first Portuguese fruit to China can now begin, provided that all requirements agreed between the national and Chinese phytosanitary authorities are met.
Secretary of State for Agriculture and Food, Luís Medeiros Vieira, said: “This is excellent news for the national horticultural sector, whose exports have been on a very consistent upward trajectory.” Medeiros Vieira cites the recent figures: “By July, in 2019, exports of the horticultural sector already exceeded 900 million euros, a figure that corresponds to an increase of 11% over the same period.”
“The Chinese market … is a market of extreme demand, but of a very relevant size, able to make a difference for many national producers,” said the official, also considering that “in this matter, a consistent negotiation strategy based on high quality standards and dynamic and responsive diplomacy is needed. ” The Secretary of State for Agriculture is now optimistic also about the opening of this market for citrus, pear and apple, processes that are already at an advanced stage of negotiation.
Source: foreignaffairs.co.nz
