China has recently slapped preliminary duties from 15.6% to 62.4% on pork imports from the European Union (EU), a move set to disrupt shipments from major European suppliers to the country.
China’s Ministry of Commerce said in a statement that European companies are dumping certain pork and pig byproducts, and these have led to material injury on its domestic industry.
Major pork exporters like Danish Crown A/S and Vion Food Group units face rates of 31.3% and 32.7% respectively. It will be paid as a deposit until the duties are finalized. Numerous other companies were also issued a specific rate, while the highest rate of 62.4% levies will be imposed on ‘Other exporters’ as their names are not listed, according to the statement.
The severe measures come as China struggles with a domestic oversupply of pork and sluggish consumption amid a sustained economic downturn. The hefty duties however placed pressures on hog farmers in Europe who are also contending with slowing demand in their own domestic market and the fallout from disease outbreaks.
The tariffs are unlikely to result in price hikes for consumers, as China will instead trim the profitability of European pork product producers, said Rupert Claxton, Meat and Livestock Director for consultant firm Gira.
China initiated its anti-dumping investigation on shipments from EU last year, and this was extended till June this year as it reacts to EU’s investigations into Chinese subsidies across a range of areas. In October 2024, EU voted to impose tariffs as high as 45% on electric vehicles from China.
A spokesperson from the European Commission (EC) reacted negatively to the anti-dumping allegation which he mentioned lack sufficient evidence, thereby not in line with WTO rules. As such, the EC will take the necessary steps to protect its producers and industry.
