Kathmandu: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, announced the completion of a protocol agreement between Nepal and China for the export of buffalo meat during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to China. Minister Adhikari highlighted the growing international demand for meat from livestock raised in Nepal’s Himalayan and hilly regions, which graze on medicinal herbs and plants.
A Milestone in Nepal-China Trade Relations
The agreement is considered a landmark in facilitating animal-based trade between Nepal and China. Minister Adhikari noted that the deal would encourage Nepalese farmers to invest more in buffalo farming. Speaking at an event organized to celebrate the agreement, he emphasized the importance of maintaining meat quality and meeting Chinese market standards to sustain the export initiative.
“Chinese people enjoy various delicacies made from buffalo meat. Exporting this meat will create job opportunities and inspire Nepalese farmers to invest further in buffalo farming,” he stated.
Enhancing Domestic Production and Employment
The Minister also pledged to focus on integrating new technologies to attract the younger generation into livestock farming. He emphasized that livestock farming could serve as a key sector for creating domestic employment opportunities, reducing the reliance on foreign employment.
Minister Adhikari underlined Nepal’s favorable climate and geography for animal husbandry, emphasizing the nutritional and medicinal benefits of meat and dairy products derived from livestock fed on the region’s unique flora. He added that better infrastructure, including improved road access, has eased the transportation of milk and meat from rural areas, boosting commercialization while also presenting marketing challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
The export agreement was signed between Himalayan Food International Pvt. Ltd. from Nepal and Shanghai Jiyang Food Corporation from China. The deal ensures the safe and high-quality export of buffalo meat from Nepal to China.
Minister Adhikari expressed Nepal’s commitment to adhering to scientific practices in meat production, ensuring quality from the point of origin to the final destination. He emphasized the implementation of the Livestock Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act and called for further policy refinements to ensure compliance with international standards.
Addressing Future Trade and Tax Policies
Minister Adhikari urged further bilateral studies on trade facilitation and tariff policies targeting animal-based products. He also encouraged Nepalese investors to expand their ventures in livestock farming and processing to create more employment opportunities.
Potential Impact on Nepalese Farmers and China-Nepal Relations
The agreement is expected to strengthen relations between the two countries. Nepal aims to attract additional Chinese investment in livestock production and processing. Minister Adhikari expressed optimism that the initiative would benefit both Nepalese and Chinese consumers while enhancing the livelihoods of Nepalese farmers.
In conclusion, the Minister reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to exporting high-quality products while ensuring mutual benefits for both nations. The agreement reflects Nepal’s dedication to fostering agricultural trade and cooperation, potentially opening new markets for its agricultural produce.