Uruguay has taken significant steps to deepen its agricultural relationship with China, following a successful official mission led by Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries, Alfredo Fratti. At a press conference alongside the presidents of the National Meat Institute (INAC), Gastón Scayola, and the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA), Miguel Sierra, Fratti detailed the strategic outcomes of the visit.
Key achievements included the authorization of soybean and rapeseed flour exports to China, the signing of new scientific and agricultural cooperation agreements, and enhanced bilateral engagement on food security, research, and sustainable resource management, according to a press release.
Major Outcomes of the Mission
Market Access for Soybean and Rapeseed Flours
Uruguay secured a phytosanitary protocol with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) allowing for the export of high-protein soybean and rapeseed flours, products in high demand for livestock feed in China.
Strengthening Bovine Genetics Collaboration
Uruguay and China advanced their partnership in animal genetics through the establishment of a joint laboratory for sustainable cattle breeding and production in collaboration with the Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS). The symbolic delivery of three top-tier breeding bulls — a gift to President Xi Jinping — underscored Uruguay’s commitment to this shared goal.
Creation of a Demonstration Farm
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed for the installation of a bilateral demonstration farm in Uruguay, showcasing agricultural technologies and practices from both countries.
Expansion of Research Ties and Germplasm Development
Uruguay and China continued work on a joint laboratory focused on soybean germplasm, housed at China’s Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Additionally, INIA will coordinate further research projects with China’s National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration (NAFRA).
Promotion of Forestry Cooperation
Discussions with China’s Minister of Forests and Meadows, Liu Guohong, explored potential collaboration in wetland and pasture management, forest product trade, and bamboo and rattan development — with Uruguay emerging as a leader in global negotiations on sustainable materials.
Agreements on Grain Trade Expansion
Talks with Chinese authorities also covered the potential for expanded trade in rice, sorghum, barley, and other grains, as well as improvements in **storage technologyand post-harvest loss prevention.
Boosting the National Brand
Uruguay’s presence at SIAL Shanghai, Asia’s leading food and beverage expo, and continued promotional efforts through the INAC Asia Office, further elevated Uruguay’s meat and agri-food profile in the Chinese market.
Symbols of Mutual Cooperation
In a gesture of goodwill, Minister Fratti announced Uruguay’s donation of 100 bovine embryos to support genetic improvement efforts in China. In return, Chinese Agriculture Minister Han Jun announced the donation of two utility vehicles to aid MGAP’s field operations.
Fratti also visited Tong Ren Tang, a historic Chinese medicine company, to explore opportunities for the export of bovine gallstones, propolis, and other high-value Uruguayan inputs.
A Strategic Step Forward
In wrapping up the mission, Minister Fratti emphasized that these agreements not only expand Uruguay’s export portfolio but also position the country as a forward-looking partner in agricultural innovation, sustainability, and food security.
