The European Union’s pork industry is in challenge following the announcement by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) to launch an anti-dumping investigation into EU pork and pig by-products. The investigation initiated at the behest of China’s domestic industry, threatens substantial repercussions for European pork producers.
Experts within the industry predict severe and lasting harm if exports of pig by-products to China become restricted. These by-products, which include items like ears, noses, and feet, currently find a vast market in China.
Spain’s pork export association, Interporc, has pledged to cooperate fully with the Chinese authorities, highlighting ongoing efforts to secure a trade agreement between the EU and China. Anne Richard, director of Inaporc, France’s pork exporter association, noted their preparation for addressing the investigative queries.
The situation has sparked criticism from Ksenija Simovic, senior policy adviser for trade at Copa-Cogeca, Europe’s most extensive farmer lobby. Simovic calls for the European Commission (EC) to shield the sector from bearing the cost of disputes unrelated to their industry.
This development coincides with the EC’s recent decision to impose temporary tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles starting July 4, a move criticized by some as unilateral and potentially conflicting with World Trade Organization (WTO) standards. Ulrik Bremholm, chairman of the trade association Danske Slagterier, stresses the importance of finding a balanced resolution that prioritizes job security, food security, and the continuation of production.
From China’s perspective, the probe is justified under WTO rules, aimed at protecting domestic interests. Cui Hongjian, a professor at the Beijing Foreign Studies University, pointed out the serious uptick in EU pork exports to China, necessitating a review under WTO pricing regulations.
In 2023, major EU nations like Spain, Denmark, the Netherlands, and France exported vast amounts of pork to China, contributing significantly to the $3.5 billion in pork imports by China. Restrictions or an end to these exports could dramatically impact the European pork industry, with other global exporters poised to fill any resultant void.
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