Phytosanitary protocol expected to be signed shortly, paving the way for exports to begin next year
Argentine plant health authority Senasa says it has made significant progress in negotiations to open the Chinese market for its stonefruit and expects to sign the phytosanitary protocol shortly, paving the way for shipments to begin next year.
Chinese authorities have reportedly completed the relevant technical audits, verifying pest control systems and packaging protocols in the main production areas. These inspections were key to ensuring that production from regions like San Pedro, in the province of Buenos Aires, and the territory of Mendoza, complies with international food safety standards.
The Argentine government said the opening represents a historic opportunity for market diversification, giving the country’s producers access to a huge market that demands high-quality fresh fruit, especially during the off-season. This will not only ease supply in the domestic market but also to increase profitability through the export of higher value-added products.
Stonefruit will be the latest in a growing list of agro-industrial products, such as cherries and beef, receiving the green light from China, positioning Argentina as a key trading partner for the Asian nation.
