In a statement, the European Commission emphasized that it is currently conducting a detailed analysis of the duties announced by China and assessing all available information for compliance with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.
“The European Commission is examining the provisional definitive duties announced and is carefully assessing all the information available against compliance with WTO rules,” the institution said.
Under the Chinese decision, tariffs on EU pork imports ranging from 4.9% to 19.8% will take effect from Wednesday and will remain in place for a five-year period. These rates are significantly lower than those indicated in a preliminary decision announced in September, when China considered imposing tariffs in the range of 15.6% to 62.4%.
The Chinese investigation relates to allegations of possible dumping and harm to domestic producers. However, Brussels has expressed doubts about the evidentiary basis for these conclusions and has not ruled out further steps to protect the interests of European exporters.
The EU is one of the key suppliers of pork to the Chinese market, and any trade restrictions have a significant impact on the bloc’s agricultural sector. The issue is particularly sensitive amid falling domestic pork prices in Europe and additional pressure linked to outbreaks of African swine fever in several countries.
Analysts note that the situation surrounding China’s pork tariffs could become another source of tension in EU–China trade relations. If Brussels concludes that Beijing’s measures do not comply with WTO rules, it may consider resorting to the organization’s dispute settlement mechanisms.
At the same time, the European Commission has so far refrained from making more confrontational statements, stressing that its priority is a legal assessment of China’s decision and the preservation of constructive dialogue.
PigUA.info, based on materials from thepigsite.com