Brazil and China discuss synchronizing agricultural technology in bilateral meeting

Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Carlos Fávaro, met with China’s Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Ma Youxiang, on Wednesday afternoon (11th). The bilateral meeting took place during the G20 Agriculture Working Group (AWG) in Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso. The meeting focused on key areas of interest in agricultural technical and trade cooperation between the two nations. 

China, the main destination for Brazilian agricultural exports, is a leader in technological innovation. “China is a prime example of economic development. I see opportunities to enhance the social progress of our populations through stronger trade relations. Synchronizing the technological development of our agricultural sectors, especially through universities, and investing in technologies and technical initiatives, is very important,” said Minister Carlos Fávaro. 

Established during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's first administration, the National Technical Commission on Biosafety (CTNBio) is a key tool for ensuring food production safety in Brazil. It is responsible for formulating, updating, and implementing the National Biosafety Policy for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). 

Considering Brazil’s biosafety policies, the minister highlighted the importance of Brazil and China working together on new technologies developed in both countries, which would increase productivity and, consequently, products available for trade. One example discussed during the meeting was China’s research in gene editing. 

The bilateral meeting also addressed the potential for opening and expanding markets for Brazilian products. 

A key topic at the G20, sustainable production was also discussed, with the ministers reviewing Brazil's National Program for the Conversion of Degraded Pastures into Sustainable Agricultural and Forestry Production Systems (PNCPD). This program aims to intensify food production to continuously meet the growing demands of populations like China’s. 

G20 AWG 

Led by Vice Minister Ma Youxiang, the Chinese delegation arrived in Chapada dos Guimarães on Wednesday (11th) to participate in the ministerial meetings held on September 12-13. 

Under Brazil's G20 presidency, the Global Alliance Against Hunger was launched this year. The initiative was praised by Vice Minister Ma, who emphasized China’s support for measures aimed at eradicating hunger and poverty. 

With the theme "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet," chosen by Brazil for the G20, the fight against hunger was highlighted by Minister Carlos Fávaro as the main objective of the G20 Agriculture Working Group discussions. The focus is on member countries' commitment to ensuring global food and nutritional security amid the urgent need to adapt to climate change. 


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