The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) and Chinese National Food Industry Association (CNFIA) signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a partnership that promises to bolster and intensify food safety efforts in the US and China.

The associations, representing more than 1,000 industry members, agreed to “increase government-industry exchanges and dialogue on food safety, trade facilitation and other common interests, and to also seek opportunities to collaborate regionally and globally,” according to GMA.

GMA representatives call the partnership critical during a time when food supply is more global and complex. CNFIA President Shi Xiushi says the memorandum is a new start for the associations to strengthen cooperation.