China has commenced an anti-dumping investigation into certain pork and pig by-products imported from the European Union (EU), the Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday.
The probe follows an application by the China Animal Agriculture Association, representing domestic industry interests.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, the application met all necessary conditions for initiating an anti-dumping investigation. The focus of the probe is on pork and pig by-products imported from the EU between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023. Additionally, the investigation will assess the impact on Chinese industries related to these imports from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023.
The primary aim of this investigation is to determine whether the EU has been exporting pork and pig by-products to China at unfairly low prices, a practice known as dumping. If dumping is confirmed, it could lead to tariffs or other measures to protect Chinese producers from unfair competition.
The probe, set to conclude by June 17, 2025, may be extended by up to six months under special circumstances, according to the ministry. The investigation’s findings will be crucial in deciding any potential trade remedies.
This move comes amid heightened trade tensions between China and the EU, with both parties experiencing strains over various economic and political issues. The investigation underscores China’s commitment to protecting its domestic agricultural industry, particularly its pork sector, which has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the African swine fever outbreak.
European pork exports have been a substantial part of China’s market, especially after the African swine fever drastically reduced China’s pig population. The anti-dumping probe could impact EU pork producers significantly, potentially leading to decreased market access and increased tariffs.
The EU has not yet responded to the announcement. However, such investigations typically involve rigorous data analysis and consultations between the involved parties to resolve the issues amicably.
Stakeholders in the Chinese pork industry argue that the influx of cheap EU pork has harmed local producers by driving down prices. They hope the investigation will lead to measures that level the playing field for domestic farmers.
As the investigation progresses, it will be closely monitored by both Chinese and European industries, as well as international trade observers, given its potential impact on global pork trade dynamics.
