A group of senior officials from the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP), authorities of agricultural institutions and representatives of Uruguay's private sector spent 19 days in China, visiting nine strategic provinces. This was reported by Minister Fernando Mattos.
During the visit, which took place from May 8 to 27, important advances were made in the international trade of foodstuffs of both animal and vegetable origin.
"Positive signals."
Among the topics discussed by the Uruguayan delegation was the Chinese counterpart's interest in meat and meat by-products, grains, fish, cellulose, live cattle, dairy products, fruits, wines, wool, pet food and sport horses.
Minister Mattos indicated that, together with the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC), already have three protocols in place: one for live aquatic products, one for lemons and one for sport horses.
"It is important to note that during the exchanges we never receive a negative at any time, but always positive signals as to the possibilities of introducing: (animals) wild aquatic animals, meat avianmondongo, tongue, among others"Mattos said. He also confirmed the signing of an agreement that includes the auditing of sorghum, rapeseed, wheat and rapeseed and soybean meal. In addition, the possibility of cooperating in research on fish resources was opened.
SIAL Shanghai
Among the relevant activities in which the Uruguayan authorities participated was the SIAL fair in Shanghai, which took place between May 18 and 20 and in which Uruguay was chosen as "the country of honor".
"We had a great presence of Uruguayan businessmen, a great stand presented by INAC," he said. (National Meat Institute)with more than 30 companies present and the different operators of the meat trade", noted Fernando Mattos.
He emphasized that his presence at the fair, beyond visiting and supporting Uruguay's stand, was fundamentally to support long-term trade with China, which represents a great opportunity for the country's economy.
