A delegation composed of experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA) will attend the SIAL Fair - China in 2012, to be held between May 9th and 11th in Shanghai. The MAPA mission, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ApexBrasil, will also meet with Brazilian exporters from the meat, coffee, pastries, juices and drinks, chocolates and ethnic products sectors.

Brazil is the guest of honor, which provides greater exposure. Brazil will have a 252 m2 institutional stand that will serve as a support center for the delegation, as well as a point of reference for visitors. The stand will have participation from 29 companies, four associations and the Secretary of Agriculture of the State of Bahia. In addition to participation at the fair, visits are scheduled to two supermarkets - one local and one gourmet - so that Brazilian participants can learn about eating habits, product presentation, prices and other information important to those who wish to sell into the local market.

The mission aims to strengthen Brazil's position as a supplier of foods and to facilitate entry into the Chinese market, including for small and medium-scale producers, by providing a link between Brazilian food exporters and potential local purchasers. According to the Secretary of Production and Agro-energy at MAPA, Gerardo Fontelles, the government is also seeking to diversify Brazilian exports, and international promotions such as this are important to achieve that goal. Fontelles, who will represent Minister Mendes Ribeiro Filho at the event, will make the official opening speech at the fair.

07 May 2012