Denmark Opens New Opportunities for Barley Exports to China

Denmark has secured new food export agreements with China, significantly expanding access for barley, fish, and horse feed. The deals were signed on April 21-22, 2025, during a visit by Denmark’s Minister for Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries, Jacob Jensen, to Beijing. In particular, the protocol on malting barley creates new prospects for Danish farmers, enabling them to supply this product to the vast Chinese market, one of the largest globally.

The agreements also cover wild-caught fish and seafood, simplifying export procedures. From now on, all types of wild fish from Denmark and Greenland can enter the Chinese market without the need for separate approvals for each species. In 2024, fish and seafood accounted for 35% of Denmark’s total food exports to China, and these agreements are expected to drive further growth. Additionally, the horse feed protocol supports the diversification of Danish exports.

Minister Jacob Jensen emphasized the significance of these agreements for Danish and Greenlandic companies. “We have removed barriers and ensured substantial improvements in market access for our barley, fish, and horse feed. This opens new opportunities for export growth,” he stated. The protocols are anticipated to not only strengthen Denmark’s position in the Chinese market but also foster the development of the country’s agricultural sector.

Tags: China, barley, Denmark