On Tuesday, 17 March 2026, Romania’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Florin Barbu, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Cooperation between Romania and the People’s Republic of China in Beijing, marking a strategic step that opens up new opportunities for Romania’s agri-food sector and the expansion of exports to international markets.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the document establishes a solid framework for bilateral cooperation in key areas, including food security, agricultural investment, agri-food processing, research and innovation, as well as the exchange of modern technologies.

Romania Strengthens Its Position in the Agri-Food Value Chain

“This partnership sends a clear message: Romania no longer accepts the role of merely exporting raw materials. We are strengthening our position as a supplier of value-added agri-food products, opening up new markets and attracting investment in processing. Cooperation with the People’s Republic of China represents a genuine opportunity for Romania’s farmers and food industry,” Florin Barbu stated.

Through this agreement, Romania reaffirms its strategic objective of becoming a competitive player in the agri-food value chain, with a focus on processing, added value and the diversification of export markets.

Priority Areas and Implementation Mechanisms

The Memorandum provides for cooperation in areas of major importance to Romanian agriculture, including the wine industry, the development of processing capacity, technology transfer, vocational training and the attraction of reciprocal investment.

The document will be implemented through a joint working group, which will establish priorities and identify concrete cooperation projects. The Memorandum is valid for five years, with the possibility of extension, and lays the groundwork for tangible projects with a direct impact on Romanian farmers and food processors.

Economic Impact and Prospects

The signing of this Memorandum marks a significant step towards strengthening bilateral economic relations and opens up new prospects for Romania’s agri-food sector. By attracting investment, facilitating technology transfer and gaining access to larger markets, Romania can enhance its competitiveness and make more effective use of its agricultural resources.

In the medium and long term, cooperation with China could stimulate innovation in agriculture, foster the development of the processing industry and diversify exports, thereby contributing to a more competitive and sustainable agri-food economy.

Businessman Gelu Chen: “Enormous Opportunities for Romanian Farmers in the Chinese Market”

Businessman Gelu Chen highlighted the significant potential of the recently strengthened partnership between the two countries, emphasising the benefits it could bring to Romanian farmers and producers.

Strategic Exports and Preparing Farmers

According to Chen, the signing of protocols governing the export of dairy products, fish and processed chicken meat represents a unique opportunity for Romanian farmers:

“With a market of 1.4 billion consumers in front of them, Romanian farmers must start preparing for exports immediately. I believe that some producers are already gathering information and preparing to seize this opportunity. It is essential that, in the coming days, they consult with the Ministry of Agriculture to understand the procedures and standards established by both countries.”

Sustainable Trade Relations and Bilateral Exchanges

Gelu Chen emphasised the importance of close and mutually beneficial trade relations:

“I would like relations between Romania and China to become closer and for this trade cooperation to create a lasting partnership that benefits both sides. Romanian farmers need to communicate more actively with their Chinese partners and develop diverse forms of bilateral exchange in the shared interests of both countries. This is their opportunity to access vast markets and make the most of Romanian products.”

A Message of Support for Romania

In closing, Chen expressed his direct support for Romanian farmers:

“Wishing my Romanian friends every success! This stage marks the beginning of a partnership that could transform the way Romanian agri-food products are perceived internationally. The time has come for Romania to become a competitive supplier of value-added products and take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the Chinese market.”