Brussels, 3rd June 2024 - The Argentine Embassy to the European Union in Brussels hosted an important presentation organized together with the Argentine Beef Promotion Institute (IPCVA). At this event, the launch of a certification system was highlighted, ensuring that Argentine beef exports comply with the new European Union (EU) regulations requiring deforestation-free products. In this context, the IPCVA introduced an innovative certification system that guarantees the traceability of Argentine beef, ensuring its deforestation-free origin by being integrated into the VISEC (Gran Chaco Sectorial Vision) platform. This system also applies to the soybean value chain and is aligned with Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, which will come into force on 30 December 2024.
During the presentation, it was highlighted that Argentina had already conducted a successful pilot test on 15 May, with a shipment of beef exported to Germany, demonstrating the viability of the system and the adaptability of the Argentine industry to new international requirements. Fernando Vilella, Secretary of Bioeconomy of Argentina, and other IPCVA representatives, emphasized the sustainability of Argentine production, which is based on extensive grasslands naturally free from deforestation. This sustainable approach allows Argentine beef to be produced in an environmentally friendly manner, taking advantage of the local ecosystem's natural conditions.
The VISEC platform is supported by the EU's AL INVEST Verde Programme, reinforcing international collaboration for more sustainable agricultural production. This platform ensures traceability and certification from origin to export, using georeferenced technology and Blockchain for greater accuracy and reliability. During the event, Jorge Grimberg, President of the IPCVA, stated that through the new VISEC system, Argentina consolidates its position as a leader in sustainable production. Mario Ravetino, Vice-President of the IPCVA, highlighted the importance of complying with EU regulations to maintain and develop the market for premium cuts, stressing that compliance with these regulations is crucial for accessing the most demanding European markets.
The initiative reinforces Argentina's commitment to transparency and continuous improvement in its production practices, providing comprehensive sustainability guarantees to European importers and consumers. Panellists included IPCVA authorities, representatives of European import chambers, officials from the relevant areas of the European Commission, and officials from Member States.
Argentina demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and compliance with international regulations, positioning itself as a leader in responsible livestock production. The event concluded with a tasting of certified Argentine beef, highlighting the quality and sustainability of the exported products. This presentation underscored Argentina's commitment to sustainability and adherence to the strictest international standards, positioning the country as a leader in responsible agricultural and livestock production.
You can watch the presentation video at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/live/XEwXJplRbnw
Written by Felipe Cossio