University College Dublin, Richard Keenan & Co. Ltd., and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences have joined forces to form the China-Ireland Dairy Science and Technology Centre.

The tri-partite agreement was signed at ceremony in Beijing today in the Ministry of Agriculture as part week's trade mission to China. With a goal to improve feeding efficiency, animal health and reduced environmental impact of Dairy Farming, the Centre is an important strategic development between China and Ireland.

The Centre, which will have an administrative base in Beijing, will play an important role delivering and extending technology and know-how to farms in China that will improve their efficiency and profitability.

The first project will see the localisation of Keenan Mech-Fiber Technology, which will be implemented through the InTouch Centre. This will begin with a pilot group of 50 farmers, with a plan to reach 30% of the Dairy Sector by 2020.

An active programme of research and exchange will be facilitated through the Centre. It is expected that a number of research projects will be undertaken per year, and there will be an active exchange of experts, with a bi-annual conference underpinning the cooperation.

It also intends to provide educational opportunities to high-level experts in both countries, as well as developing functional training for farmers and dairy practitioners.

Gerard Keenan, Executive Chairman of Keenan said: “The Centre is a significant strategic development and it underlines the potential synergy between Irish technology and know-how as part of a solution to China’s food security and production challenges."

The Centre will also undertake research in Animal Husbandry, such as in the area of rumen function, feed quality and animal health.

Professor Alex Evans, Dean, UCD School of Agriculture & Food Science noted: “Ireland is very proud of its long tradition of cattle production and UCD is excited by the opportunities that this Dairy Technology Centre will bring to advance the efficiency and quality of dairy production for both Ireland and China.”

The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences is a key driver of agricultural production in China. Professor Li Ming, Director of the Institute of Animal Sciences said during his recent visit to Ireland: “I am hugely impressed by what I have seen during my visit to University College Dublin and Keenan. I believe that we share a common strategic goal and that Ireland and its expertise can play a crucial role in the efficient development of China’s Dairy Sector.”

Minister Coveney, who attended the ceremony, said the announcement of the centre is very timely.

" This Centre will encourage programmes of exchange and collaboration in areas of great importance to both countries as we face the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly growing Dairy Farming sectors. Ireland’s involvement in this venture through Keenans and UCD is testament to the calibre and professional esteem both organisations are rightfully held in."