Ireland has launched a high-level agri-food trade mission to China this week, led by Minister of State for Fisheries Timmy Dooley TD, in partnership with Bord Bia and Enterprise Ireland. The mission, running from 29 to 31 October 2025, aims to strengthen Ireland’s position as a trusted supplier of safe, high-quality, and sustainable agri-food products to the Chinese market.
In 2024, Irish agri-food exports to China were valued at €614 million, with seafood—particularly shellfish—showing notable growth. Exports in this category have increased by 30% over the past four years, reflecting China’s rising demand and Ireland’s expanding footprint in the region.
A central feature of the mission is Ireland’s participation in the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo in Qingdao, Asia’s largest seafood trade show. Minister Dooley will meet with eight Irish seafood companies operating in China to explore market expansion opportunities and reinforce Ireland’s commitment to trade diversification.
The itinerary includes government-to-government meetings, trade seminars, and customer engagements, designed to deepen commercial ties and promote Ireland’s agri-food capabilities across dairy, meat, and seafood sectors.
Minister Dooley emphasized the strategic importance of the visit:
“This is the third Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine trade mission to China in as many years, which underlines the importance the Irish Government places on our trading relationship with China.”
Shane Hamill, Director of Global Business Development at Bord Bia, highlighted China’s growing appetite for adult nutrition, high-protein foods, and value-added dairy products, noting that the mission aims to connect Irish exporters with key Chinese buyers and distributors.
The delegation is also gathering insights into China’s retail and e-commerce landscape, which is rapidly reshaping how premium food products are marketed and consumed. These insights are expected to inform future strategies for Irish exporters seeking to scale in one of the world’s most competitive consumer markets.
This trade mission reinforces Ireland’s commitment to agri-food innovation, market diversification, and bilateral cooperation, positioning Irish producers to thrive in a dynamic global environment.
