Tit-for-tat: China launches anti-dumping probe into EU pork imports

The trade war between China and the European Union is escalating with every passing day. In a rather tit-for-tat move by China, the country has launched an anti-dumping probe into EU pork imports.

China was considering retaliation following tariffs on its EV imports. EU has imposed tariffs of up to 38.1 per cent on Chinese EVs. EU has clarified this decision as a way to 'protect' domestic industries from China's excess production & 'overcapacity' concerns.

Pork is a popular meal in China. Interestingly, Spain was the top pork supplier for China in 2023. Three other European countries (Netherlands, Denmark, and France) are major pork suppliers. Imports of pork from EU nations totalled $3 billion last year.

Regarding probes, the Chinese ministry said, 'The Ministry of Commerce has opened an anti-dumping investigation into imports of relevant pork and pig by-products originating from the European Union.'

European nations have already sounded alarm on the possible 'threat' lurking if the trade war with China escalates. Germany, for example, is heavily dependent on China for trade. Major auto giants located in Germany have voiced concerns over the probe being 'counterproductive'. It's also important to note that China is one of the largest car markets in the world and the most advanced in EV production, owing to its supremacy in raw materials.

Coming to China's latest probe, Spain hopes for a 'room for understanding' over the decision. Businesses in both China & Europe fear huge trade losses if this probe war continues. China has already launched probes against the EU's brandy and a key engineering chemical.