James O’Donnell, Shanghai Office, Bord Bia – Irish Food Board

The Chinese market for imported infant formula continues to grow with imports up 45% in 2015. Europe accounted for 73% of imported formula with Ireland taking second place behind the Netherlands as a source of supply. Irelands brands such as Illuma produced by Wyeth, Eliva by Abbott and Green love plus , a partnership between China’s most established mother & baby company and Kerry Plc are leaders in the market.

In 2015, China imported over 175,000t of infant formula with the sector now accounting for approximately 50% of total formula consumed in China. The demand is driven by a high level of consumer confidence in product produced outside China. Recent changes to the one child policy will see the number of babies born in China increase by about 2 million per year over the next two years and is expected to stabilize thereafter.

Infant formula is Irelands largest export item to China and plays an important role for the growth of our dairy industry. Our industry will benefit from further increase in demand over the next two years. Our reputation for high quality iconic brands in the category plays an important factor in positioning Ireland as a premium source of food with middle and high income consumers in China. Bord Bia recently launched a dedicated website in China for Irish dairy www.origingreen.com.cn

For more information please contact james.odonnell@bordbia.ie