The Chinese and Belgian authorities have signed a protocol for the export of bumblebees to China to pollinate commercial crops.
Belgian biological pollination specialist Biobest has welcomed the move. In a statement Jean-Marc Vandoorne, CEO of Biobest, said: “Biobest is convinced of the huge market potential for bumblebees in the Chinese market, thanks to increasing awareness of Chinese consumers about food safety and the efforts from the Chinese government in promoting agriculture and more specifically protected horticulture.
"Chinese growers will find their way very quickly in using our bumblebee hives. As we see in other markets throughout the world, growers quickly adapt to a more sustainable method of production, after bumblebees have entered their greenhouses. The next step to biological control lies within the use of various mites and beneficial insects to tackle diverse pests. We are looking forward to taking our first steps in the Chinese market.”
