CHINA – China has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into pork imports from the European Union, particularly targeting Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark.
This action, announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce, comes as a response to the European Commission’s recent decision to impose anti-subsidy duties on Chinese electric vehicles.
The investigation, which began on June 17, will scrutinize pork products meant for human consumption, including fresh, chilled, and frozen whole cuts, as well as pig intestines, bladders, and stomachs.
The probe was prompted by a complaint from the China Animal Husbandry Association on behalf of the domestic pork industry.
China’s announcement follows the European Commission’s June 12 declaration of anti-subsidy duties, which could reach up to 38.1% on Chinese car imports starting in July.
Spain, the leading supplier of pork to China, has vowed full cooperation with the investigation.
Interporc, the Spanish pork producers’ association, expressed optimism about reaching a resolution with Chinese authorities, stating, “The EU and China have plenty of time to reach agreements.”
Despite the ongoing investigation, European pork producers can continue exporting to China without tariffs until a final decision is made.
The investigation is expected to conclude by June 17, 2025, but could be extended by six months if necessary.
The Danish Agriculture & Food Council has warned of severe repercussions for Denmark’s pork sector if restrictions are imposed, describing potential impacts as “incredibly hard.”
Meanwhile, pork suppliers from South America, the United States, and Russia may benefit from any reduction in EU imports by gaining a larger share of the Chinese market.
The state-backed Global Times reported last month that Chinese businesses were pushing for an anti-dumping investigation into European pork products.
This was followed by a similar request regarding European dairy imports on June 8.
Although the European Commission spokesperson expressed confidence in the investigation’s compliance with World Trade Organization rules, the EU remains vigilant.
The EU, which provided more than half of China’s US$6B pork imports in 2023, is closely monitoring the situation.
Spain alone accounted for a quarter of these imports, while the Netherlands and Denmark contributed significantly with exports worth US$620M and US$550M respectively.
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