Chinese companies have officially requested an anti-dumping investigation into pork imports from the European Union, as reported by the state-backed Global Times. This development intensifies the ongoing trade dispute following the EU’s imposition of anti-subsidy duties on Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles (EVs).
The application for an anti-dumping probe signals a new phase of tension in one of the world’s most significant trade relationships. This comes on the heels of Brussels imposing tariffs of up to 38.1% on EVs produced in China, aiming to protect its automotive industry from intense competition.
In 2023, China imported pork worth $6 billion, including offal, with the EU supplying more than half of this amount, according to customs data. The Global Times article, shared on X, lacked specific details regarding the anti-dumping probe request and did not clarify which pork products might be affected. The report also did not identify the companies involved, citing a “business insider” for the information.
Products such as pig feet, ears, and offal, which are not widely consumed in Europe, are highly popular among Chinese consumers, creating a vital market for European pork producers. “Much of the imports from Europe are not muscle meat,” stated a livestock analyst who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the issue. The analyst added that if offal imports are targeted, China would have to source these products from other countries where they are not locally consumed.
Global food companies are on high alert for potential retaliatory actions following the EU’s recent decision to levy tariffs on Chinese EVs. Beijing has a history of targeting food products in trade disputes, aiming to create immediate political pressure by impacting farmers who rely on China’s vast market.
Spain was China’s leading pork supplier last year, followed by Brazil and the United States, with other significant suppliers being France, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
As the trade row deepens, the implications for the global pork market could be substantial, affecting supply chains and market dynamics worldwide. Swine Web will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
