Ireland has secured a deal to export sheepmeat and breeding pigs to China, following extensive negotiations. This development, highlighted by agricultural minister Charlie McConalogue as a significant milestone, is expected to gradually expand as Chinese consumers become more familiar with Irish products. Despite the positive reception, the deal has sparked criticism due to the inclusion of live pig exports, an aspect that has drawn strong opposition from EU stakeholders like Green MEP Tilly Metz and Olga Kikou, head of Compassion in World Farming EU, who raise concerns over animal welfare and the environment.