Minister Timmy Dooley has concluded a successful seafood and agri-food trade mission to China, reinforcing Ireland’s commercial ties and expanding market access for Irish exports in Asia’s largest agri-food economy.
Strategic Engagement in Beijing
Minister of State for Fisheries, Timmy Dooley, wrapped up a multi-day trade mission to China on 31 October 2025, conducted in partnership with Bord Bia and Enterprise Ireland. In Beijing, Minister Dooley held bilateral meetings with senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) and the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
Discussions focused on enhancing market access, particularly for Irish pork products, with both sides agreeing to update protocols to include a broader range of porcine offal. The Minister also emphasized Ireland’s commitment to global food security and sustainable food systems, highlighting the country’s reputation for high-quality, safe, and sustainably produced agri-food exports.
Promoting Irish Dairy
Minister Dooley addressed a high-level EU Dairy Seminar attended by Chinese government officials and industry leaders. The event showcased Ireland’s grass-fed dairy model and its alignment with Chinese consumer demand for premium, traceable ingredients. The seminar was part of the €3.2 million EU co-funded campaign to promote European dairy in China, Singapore, and Vietnam.
Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries, Timmy Dooley TD, at the Seafood Expo
Seafood Sector Gains
Earlier in the week, the Minister attended the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo in Qingdao, Asia’s largest seafood trade show. He met with nine Irish seafood companies, including Donegal-based exporters, to discuss expansion opportunities. Irish seafood exports to China reached €41 million in 2024, reflecting strong growth and rising demand.
Shane Hamill, Bord Bia’s China Manager, noted that the mission generated “strong engagement from buyers and partners,” reinforcing commercial momentum for Irish seafood, dairy, and meat products.
Closing Reception
The mission concluded with a Flavours of Ireland reception at the Irish Embassy in Beijing, showcasing Irish agri-food produce to Chinese stakeholders and reinforcing Ireland’s brand as a trusted supplier in the region.
Conclusion
Ireland’s agri-food sector is well-positioned to deepen its footprint in China, with growing demand for sustainable, high-quality exports and renewed government-to-government cooperation. The trade mission underscores Ireland’s strategic commitment to expanding its presence in Asia’s most influential food market.
Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries, Timmy Dooley TD, with China Vice-Minister ZHAO (GACC)
Sources: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine gov.ie; Agriland Agriland Agriland; ShelfLife Magazine Shelflife Magazine.
