Australia, China enhance cooperation on grain research

A new agreement between the Australian and Chinese grains industries will in part encourage the exchange of grain quality, safety and processing knowledge and expertise.

The agreement was signed by representatives from Grains Australia, the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) and the Academy of National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration (Academy of NAFRA) this week in Beijing, China.

It also will examine cooperative research opportunities to identify blending options for Chinese and Australian wheat and/or flour, and new methods for wheat quality evaluation and grain processing. The partners will explore collaborative nutritional, healthy and functional food market opportunities, such as those related to whole grain food products.

Grains Australia and AEGIC work together for Australian grain growers, with AEGIC being a delivery partner for Grains Australia’s services. Grains Australia is an industry group that manages classification, market access, market insights and market education.

AEGIC will provide some of the activities outlined in the agreement, on behalf of Grains Australia.

The primary focus of the not-for-profit Academy of NAFRA is ensuring national food security, promoting the development of the food circulation industry and addressing scientific and technological issues related to food and strategic reserves.

“The agreement reaffirms Grains Australia’s dedication to fostering strong and mutually beneficial relationships and opportunities with China, which is a significant and valued grain trading partner,” said Richard Simonaitis, chief executive officer of Grains Australia.

Courtney Draper, executive general manager of AEGIC, said the agreement consolidated a long-standing, valued relationship between AEGIC and the Academy of NAFRA and its scientists.

“The MoU builds on already-established trust and mutual respect between the organizations and has highlighted valuable new areas on which we intend to work together,” she said.

Tags: Australia, China, grain