The Central Association of the German Poultry Industry (ZDG) views the delegation trip of Federal Minister Alois Rainer to Japan and China as an important step towards strengthening export prospects in key Asian markets.
ZDG Managing Director Wolfgang Schleicher explains: “From the perspective of the poultry industry, Team Germany, consisting of Federal Minister Alois Rainer, the ministry’s expert staff, and representatives from the embassies and the business sector, was strong and successful in both Japan and China.”
Progress in Japan: Recognition of EU regionalization confirmed
The results of the talks in Japan are particularly noteworthy. “In the discussions, Japan confirmed its acceptance of the EU’s regionalization approach to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Exports from unaffected regions are therefore generally possible,” said Wolfgang Schleicher. From the industry’s perspective, this development is a crucial step towards greater planning certainty and reducing trade-inhibiting effects in the event of an epidemic. “Now it’s a matter of finalizing and signing the necessary protocols and certificates.”
China: Market access has expanded like never before
The German poultry industry also views the results of the talks in China positively. “We have never been as close as we are now to opening the Chinese market to German poultry products such as breeding animals, genetics, and poultry meat,” emphasizes the ZDG Managing Director. At the same time, the process remains challenging and requires a long-term commitment. “Opening the Chinese market is not a sprint, but a marathon. Federal Minister Alois Rainer has impressively demonstrated his mastery of long-distance politics and possesses the necessary stamina to sustainably develop the Chinese market.” However, Schleicher also cautions that “for the market opening to succeed, it is equally essential that China pursues the negotiations with comparable priority to the German side.”
Thanks to Team Germany
In closing, the ZDG Managing Director, speaking on behalf of the four representatives of the poultry industry, commended the cohesive and professional cooperation of all involved. “Our thanks go to Federal Minister Alois Rainer and the entire Team Germany. In our view, this team is capable of achieving the best possible results for the German agricultural and food industry in exports to third countries,” Wolfgang Schleicher concluded, summarizing the delegation’s trip.
