Return of Irish beef exports to China welcomed by Offaly politicians

Offaly politicians have been welcoming the news today (Monday) that Irish beef exports to China are set to resume.

The Chinese market had been closed for Irish beef producers since September 2024, following the discovery of a case of BSE in a cow in Ireland.

The General Administration of Customs in China has now confirmed the reopening of access to the Chinese market for beef produced in Ireland.

The development was welcomed by Offaly Fianna Fáil TD Tony McCormack and by the party's Midlands North West MEP Barry Cowen.

"The confirmation today that the Chinese market will reopen for Irish beef is a very important and positive development for our farmers," said Deputy McCormack.

"It restores access to a key international market and supports the continued growth of Ireland's beef sector."

Also welcoming the news, Barry Cowen noted that Irish beef exports were already performing strongly, with overall exports up 7% year-on-year.

He said that the reopening of the Chinese market would further support this growth by giving exporters access to one of the world’s largest and most valuable consumer markets.

"Restoring access to a major market like China strengthens our momentum and underlines the importance of building diverse, high-value export outlets for Irish agriculture," said MEP Cowen.

"In an increasingly uncertain global trading environment, diversification of markets is essential. Securing and maintaining access to key destinations like China gives our farming sector greater stability and protects rural livelihoods.

"This decision also highlights how vital it is, on top of our investment in tackling TB, that we stay on top of zoonotic and more general animal health risks. Ireland’s rigorous surveillance and swift, transparent response played a crucial role in maintaining international confidence and reopening this market," said the Clara native.