Irish Prime Minister Discusses Dairy and Beef Trade Issues in China

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang during his visit to Beijing, aiming to strengthen trade ties between Ireland and China. A key focus of the discussions was the ongoing trade issues affecting Irish dairy and beef exports.

Martin's visit comes amid a backdrop of strained relations between China and the European Union, particularly following the EU's decision to impose levies on Chinese electric vehicle imports in 2024. In retaliation, China set tariffs on EU dairy products, impacting Ireland, one of Europe's largest dairy exporters, with annual exports worth approximately 6 billion euros.

Irish beef exports to China have been suspended since 2024 due to a case of mad cow disease. During his visit, Martin emphasized the importance of resuming these exports, noting progress made but acknowledging that further discussions with Chinese officials are needed. Previously, Irish Junior Minister for Agriculture Timmy Dooley had highlighted ongoing efforts to assure China of the safety of Irish beef.

The talks also touched on potential import quotas and additional tariffs on beef imports that China has introduced, affecting global suppliers. Ireland markets its beef as a premium product, facing competition from cheaper South American alternatives.

Martin, the first Irish Taoiseach to visit China since 2012, has opted for a strategic approach towards China, focusing on long-term trade relations rather than recent intelligence warnings about China's geopolitical stance.