EU Agriculture Commissioner focuses on increasing agri-food exports to China.
During his visit to China this week, EU Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski emphasises the importance of enhancing agri-food exports to the world’s second-largest economy. His goal is to maintain a robust trade relationship and prevent agriculture from bearing the brunt of escalating tensions in China-EU trade.
Wojciechowski underscores the absence of barriers for Chinese imports in the food trade and expresses his intention to ensure that agriculture remains insulated from broader trade conflicts. Amid concerns of a potential trade war between China and Europe, the commissioner aims to safeguard the agri-food sector, which boasts an export surplus in trade with China.
Unlike other sectors facing protectionism, such as solar panels or new energy vehicles, the EU’s agri-food sector plays a crucial role in ensuring food security worldwide. Despite geopolitical challenges, food trade remains essential, as evidenced by Western sanctions on Russia not extending to agri-food products.
Wojciechowski highlights the potential for growth in EU exports to China across various agri-food segments, including poultry, pork, beef, and dairy. With the rising middle-class population in China seeking high-quality food products, there are opportunities for European food exporters to meet this demand and expand their market presence.
Last year saw a decline in EU exports to China, but Wojciechowski remains optimistic about the prospects for increased exports, emphasising the quality and appeal of European food products to Chinese consumers. As trade tensions persist, fostering strong trade relations in the agri-food sector becomes increasingly vital for both the EU and China.
