Return of Irish beef to Chinese market welcomed

The resumption of Irish beef exports to the Chinese market has been welcomed by farm bodies.

Exports were suspended late last year due to the detection of an atypical BSE case in a cow during routine Department of Agriculture tests.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during a visit to Dublin by Chinese premier Li Qiang.

Welcoming the news, IFA president Francie Gorman said the access must lead to an increase in the price offered to farmers.

"We are always seeking access to as many markets as possible and the Chinese market offers very significant opportunities. The renewal of access to this market must be reflected in further price increases for farmers,” he said.