The EU remains unconcerned about China’s anti-dumping investigation on pork from Europe.
Less than a week after the European Union raised tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China, Beijing has announced an investigation into pork imported from the European Union.
The European Commission expressed no concern about this action amid the escalating tensions between Brussels and Beijing.
On June 17, China’s communist regime initiated an investigation into specific pork and pig byproducts imported from the EU. This move followed the EU’s increased tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in response to perceived threats to its auto industry.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced the anti-dumping probe on its website, stating that it was requested by the China Animal Agriculture Association, a state-backed industrial group.
The investigation will focus on various pork products intended for human consumption and is expected to be completed within 12 months, with a possible extension of six months in special circumstances.
Regarding Beijing’s announcement, the European Commission’s trade spokesperson, Olof Gill, stated that they would closely monitor the proceedings to ensure compliance with relevant World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. Gill also refuted Beijing’s dumping accusation.
The EU, a major pork exporter, primarily sells its products to East Asia, including China. However, exports to China have declined in recent years, with projections indicating a further decrease due to China’s growing pigmeat production.
Beijing’s actions come amidst heightened tensions between the EU and China on various fronts, including trade policies, aid to Russia, and ongoing investigations into Chinese imports.
Analysts warn of potential retaliatory measures from China in response to the EU’s tariffs on Chinese vehicles but expect any economic retaliation to be short-lived. They predict that Beijing’s reliance on European technologies will drive efforts to repair bilateral ties.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
