A co-operation agreement between Bord Bia and the China Dairy Industry Association was signed today at the Irish-China dairy seminar in Beijing.

The event, hosted by Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney in association with Bord Bia, is aimed at raising awareness of Ireland as a premium dairy producer for Chinese buyers and consumers in advance of the abolition of quotas next year.

Commenting on the agreement, Bord Bia Chief Executive Aidan Cotter said: "This marks another key progression for the Irish dairy industry and Bord Bia as we continue to build key trade relationships in China."

Speaking at the seminar, Minister Coveney said: “Ireland stands on the cusp of the biggest positive development for Irish agriculture in over thirty years. With more than 85% of Irish dairy production being exported and one third of the value of these exports going outside the EU, it is imperative that the Irish dairy sector continues to source sustainable third country markets particularly now that our output will be expanding from next April.

"Today’s event was about demonstrating to key Chinese buyers and companies that Irish dairy sector is one which combines the best of cutting edge technology, consumer friendly products with verifiable sustainability and food safety claims”.