First Steps for Dutch Exports to China
NETHERLANDS - Exports of Dutch pig meat to China have come a step closer this week following a trade mission of Dutch government ministers to the Far East.
Gerda Verburg van Landbouw
Agriculture, food and rural affairs minister Gerda Verburg van Landbouw signed a fresh protocol with China on Thursday for the export of pig meat and also genetics.
The signing of the protocol is the first step to obtaining full export approval.
The next step will see a delegation from China visit the Netherlands to inspect the Dutch meat plants. About 30 plants are expected to be audited.
Then the Dutch authorities expect the Chinese to issue export certificates for pig meat.
The negotiations to open the borders for Dutch pig meat started in 2004.
The minister is on an official visit to China together with the Dutch President Balkenende designed to strengthen political, economic and social links between the two countries.