The investigation should last 8 months and will include Brazil, the main exporter of meat to the Asian country
China announced on Friday (Dec 27, 2024) that it had opened an investigation into beef imports. The calculation covers the period from 2019 to the 1st quarter of 2024 and all countries that export the product to the Asian nation, including Brazil – the main trading partner in the sector.
The investigation aims to apply protection measures to strategic sectors. It will be carried out at the request of Chinese producers. They claim that the increase in imports would have caused damage to local production. It should last 8 months.
In , the Brazilian government stated that, in principle, the Chinese did not adopt any preliminary measures. The current 12% tariff that China applies to beef imports remains.
The Asian country is the main destination for Brazilian beef exports. In 2024, more than 1 million tons were exported to China, an increase of 12.7% compared to 2023.
The Brazilian government said that, together with national exporters, it will seek to demonstrate that Brazilian meat exported does not cause “any loss” to Chinese industry and is a complement to local production.
“The Brazilian government reaffirms its commitment to defending the interests of Brazilian agribusiness, respecting the sovereign decisions of our main commercial partner, always seeking constructive dialogue in search of mutually beneficial solutions”stated the joint note from the ministries of Agriculture and Livestock, Development, Industry, Commerce and Services and Foreign Affairs.
In a statement, Abiec (Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries) stated that it remains committed to cooperating with the Chinese and Brazilian authorities.
It also said it will provide clarifications and actively participate in the investigation process for “solutions that meet the interests of both nations”.
He also said that Brazilian beef exported to China is of high quality and follows strict health and safety standards.
Abrafrigo (Brazilian Association of Refrigerators) stated in a note ( – PDF – 478 kB) that it is available “to collaborate with the investigation procedure, with confidence in a solution balanced and that meets the interests of both markets”.
With information from .
