Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Bord Bia and the dairy companies working with it have been making significant efforts to build on the significant reputation we have as a quality, sustainable, safe and nutritious dairy exporter and increase various other strands of product into China. Infant formula is obviously a very important product that has to be produced to the highest of standards. Everyone takes very seriously what they feed their children. The fact we have such a strong presence in the infant formula market in China and other parts of the world is a reflection of the esteem in which our milk production system is held. We have been seeing significant change, as the Deputy pointed out, in the Chinese market in recent years with regard to infant formula. The Deputy pointed out the birth rate in China has dropped and the significant increase in domestic supply has been a significant factor. Infant formula milk exports to China peaked in 2017 at €618 million, whereas last year the same exports accounted for €266 million. That is a significant reduction. The Deputy has outlined the reasons for it. We are still a significant player, but we wish to develop the other opportunities in cheeses and nutrition drinks. There is a real market for the great nutritional qualities our milk products provide, on which Bord Bia and our strong dairy companies want to build.

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