Three gift bulls from Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou were embarked on a plane to China on Thursday, destined for Chinese President Xi Jinping. These animals, representing the main breeds raised in Uruguay, were initially presented in November 2023 during President Lacalle Pou’s state visit to China, commemorating 35 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The shipment includes stallions of the Angus and Hereford breeds, which were initially announced, and a Braford hybrid breed that was added later through a raffle. The three bulls weigh between 850 and 900 kg and, after completing a quarantine, are ready for export. According to Milagros Irureta, the veterinarian who monitored them, special cages were designed in accordance with international animal welfare protocols to ensure the animals’ comfort during travel.
Uruguay is confident in consolidating the preference of Chinese consumers for high-quality Uruguayan meats, which have already been introduced to the Chinese market, as stated by the National Institute of Meat. The Livestock, Agriculture, and Fishing Minister, Fernando Mattos, views this shipment as a “sign of friendship” and an opportunity for the development of bovine genetics exchange between Uruguay and China.
China’s ambassador to Uruguay, Huang Yazhong, highlighted the “great potential” of the bilateral relationship, emphasizing that according to China’s development plan, the middle-class population will double within 10 years, leading to a significant increase in demand for high-quality agricultural and livestock products from Uruguay. In 2024, China was the main destination for Uruguayan bovine meat, accounting for 31% of the total, according to official figures.
This exchange underlines the strengthening of relations between Uruguay and China, with a focus on mutual benefit and cooperation in the agricultural and livestock sectors. As the countries continue to foster their diplomatic ties, initiatives like this gift of bulls symbolize the potential for future collaborations and the growing importance of the Chinese market for Uruguayan products.