China’s General Administration of Customs revoked the import qualifications of six U.S. firms on Friday to safeguard public health and ensure the protection of the country’s livestock industry.
The affected enterprises include one involved in sorghum exports to China, three specializing in poultry meat and bone meal, and two engaged in exporting poultry products.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, an official from the General Administration of Customs emphasized that the measures implemented are justified, scientific, and appropriate. The actions align with China’s laws and regulations and adhere to international standards.
The Customs reported on its website that recent inspections revealed excessive levels of Zearalenone and total mold content in imported U.S. sorghum, along with the presence of Salmonella in U.S. poultry meat and bone meal.
To ensure the safety of livestock production, the Chinese authorities have suspended the import qualifications of C&D (USA) for sorghum, as well as American Proteins, Mountaire Farms of Delaware, and Darling Ingredients Incorporated for poultry meat and bone meal. The decision complies with relevant Chinese laws and WTO regulations.
Chinese customs reported multiple detections of furazolidone, a drug banned under Chinese law, in U.S. poultry products. As a result, imports from the U.S. companies have been suspended.
An official further clarified, as per Xinhua, that Zearalenone is a mycotoxin generated by Fusarium fungi. When it enters the food chain through animal feed, it poses significant health risks to both humans and animals.
Meanwhile, Salmonella, a zoonotic bacterium, can lead to reduced productivity or even death in animals when consumed. An official noted that Chinese customs will strengthen inspections and quarantine procedures for imported agricultural and food products to firmly protect the nation’s border security.
TRADE WORLD | Vietnam Seeks Delay in U.S. Tariffs for Trade Negotiations
