Eurotier takes place in Hanover, Germany on November 11 to 14 and all UK major pig breeding companies will be present, co-ordinated by the British Pig Association.

The reception is for the 30-strong delegation from the Chinese pork industry on November 13 and there are plans to arrange individual meetings with companies and organisations.

BPEX Export Manager Jean-Pierre Garnier said: “This is a very important visit by a top-ranking delegation from China.

“China is by far the largest market for pork in the world, consuming almost half global production.

“It has already been opened to UK breeding stock and a number of firms are actively exporting – it is a trade that is growing and has the potential to expand very fast.

“A protocol has also been signed which will open the Chinese market to our pork and pork products. Abattoirs wishing to take part in trade with China are being identified prior to official inspections next year.”