The import and distribution of a wide range of Pulses and Birdseed is Poortman’s core business, and as such, products are sourced the world over. Today China is recognised as a key supplier; however over 50 years ago Poortman was a pioneer in the sourcing of Pulses and Birdseed from China.

Poortman’s relationship with Chinese producers began in 1955, when the Pulses and Birdseed importer, distributor and stockist recognised the potential of buying from a country with huge production capacity but little knowledge of, or access to, markets outside Asia. At the time, very few companies were trading with China and a huge investment of time and effort was made by Poortman to overcome cultural, language and trade barriers.

Poortman employees worked closely with Chinese producers, advising on production methods and machinery, factory set-up and, most importantly, quality procedures. Gradually standards were raised. Chinese producers grew to understand the requirements of Poortman customers, and Poortman traders gained the confidence to buy new products in increasing quantities from them.

As a result of these efforts, Chinese producers have increased quality and competitiveness and are now recognised as holding a key position on the international market. As one of the industry’s leading international Pulse and Birdseed importers, distributors and stockists, Poortman recognises the importance of maintaining good relationships with Chinese producers and continuing to invest in their development, in order that Poortman may continue to provide best quality and best value to its customers. To this end, Poortman established its own dedicated Pulse processing factory in Tianjin during 2003 and maintains a staff presence elsewhere in China. Poortman employees continue to work with Chinese producers and also represent an important link in the quality assurance procedure, inspecting every shipment from a Chinese producer to a Poortman customer or warehouse.

Poortman traders also regularly visit China, auditing factories, inspecting crops and gathering market and production information that allowthem to forecast market conditions and price development.

Poortman is an expert in the field of Pulses and Birdseed import and distribution and a stockist of Beans, Lentils, Chickpeas and Peas, Millet, Canary, Sunflower and Niger Seeds from China and welcomes enquiries from customers seeking to purchase top quality products from this origin, and others.