The export deal, which had been in the works for nearly five years, was all but confirmed earlier on Tuesday by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Agriculture Minister Tomislav Tolušić after hosting a meeting in Zagreb with China's Agriculture and Rural Development minister, Han Changfu.

Minister Tolušić said he hoped to avoid such a long process in the future, adding that Croatian farmers were very interested in increasing food exports such as poultry, pork, and tuna.

Chinese advertising companies are set to do their part to promote Croatian products by producing advertising campaigns for the Chinese market.

"We want to see even more of your quality products being sold in China. Therefore, we want to contribute to the promotion of Croatian products through the media and social media platforms. In this way, Chinese consumers can get better acquainted with Croatian products," Minister Changfu concluded.

"The Chinese market needs quality products, and this could help boost the Croatian agricultural industry as well," said Minister Changfu. "On the other hand, Chinese citizens can enjoy Croatia's high-quality products."