In a significant development for South Africa’s dairy industry, the Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO) has welcomed the established trade relationship between South Africa and China which will see the two countries exchanging exports.
The agreement, announced by minister of agriculture John Steenhuisen during a recent trip to China with President Cyril Ramaphosa, was applauded by many as a game-changer as trade with China as the world’s largest economy would benefit local producers and uplift the economy.
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Part of the agreement signed by Steenhuisen and his counterpart, minister Han Jun, will pave the way for South African milk producers to enter the Chinese market, offering substantial growth opportunities.
“This is just the beginning of opening up the Chinese market for South African products with more exciting announcements to be made later in the year,” Steenhuisen said.
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Fanie Ferreira, MPO’s chief executive officer, shared that the MPO is working closely with stakeholders to finalise the details of the agreement, which could provide a much-needed boost to the local dairy sector.
With hopes high for increased trade, Ferreira explained that this partnership could strengthen both industries and contribute to the sustainability of South Africa’s agricultural economy.
“The MPO wishes to express our support for minister John Steenhuisen. The progress made in his short time in office is remarkable, and we are encouraged by his leadership and vision.
“His commitment to advancing trade and ensuring the sustainability of the agricultural sector has not gone unnoticed. We are confident that, under his guidance, further positive developments will follow,” Ferreira said.
While the industry has in recent months been hit by numerous challenges such as foot-and-mouth disease, and poor infrastructure such as roads and power cuts which led to farmers scaling down their operations, Ferreira said the commodity organisation is looking forward to future collaborations and continuing the work that will ensure a thriving and prosperous dairy industry for South Africa.
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