Since the moment of China´s entry into the WTO it has gradually been eliminating barriers regarding the entry of foreign agro-alimentary products into the country. In addition, and due to the rise in incomes, Chinese consumers are becoming increasingly demanding as well as more open to non-Chinese products. In a market of 1.300 million inhabitants and a country of such size, gastronomic taste varies enormously from one region to another. This situation should not, however, be a deterrent; on the contrary, it increases the possibility of certain products being of interest to Chinese consumers.
During China Year in Spain (2007) Spain and China began to study the possibility of introducing spanish meat products onto the Asiatic market, opening up interesting possibilities for ham producers and other sub-sectors. In addition, companies supplying meat processsing equipment are now seeing in interesting market to explore given that there is a lack of sufficient technology and know-how in this field among Chinese business. In the wine, milk and oil products, Spanish companies still have a considerable way to go as our presence is not yet proportional to Spain´s importance on an international level. To cite a specific case, in the bottled wine sector, the volume that Spain sells to China is far below that of France, for example, which exports up to six times more than Spain.
CHEIC works with the Spanish authorities, who are notably involved in encouraging the export of agro-alimentary products. Participation in fairs and conferences offers a vital show-case for involvement in this highly complex market. Finally, we also work with some of the leading local importers as doing business through these entities is obligatory in order gain a foothold in the Chinese market. Achieving this aim will be the result of considerable patience and of receiving appropriate support regarding the various market involved.