China Imposes New Tariffs on EU Pork Imports Amid Trade Tensions

China has announced the imposition of anti-dumping duties on pork and pork by-products imported from the European Union (EU), effective December 17, 2025. The tariffs will range from 4.9% to 19.8%, significantly lower than the preliminary rates of up to 62.4% established in September 2025. This decision follows a year-long investigation initiated in June 2024, which concluded that EU exporters were selling pork at unfairly low prices, causing material harm to China's domestic pork industry.

China puts anti-dumping tariff on EU pork importsSupply Chain BrainChina trims anti-dumping levy on EU pork, keeps measures for five yearsChina Lowers Anti-Dumping Duties on EU PorkChina sets import tariff of almost 10 per cent on Belgian porkBloombergChina Daily

The investigation was prompted by the EU's imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which China labeled as protectionist. The EU's tariffs, reaching as high as 45%, were aimed at countering what it viewed as unfair competition from Chinese manufacturers benefiting from state subsidies. In retaliation, China launched the anti-dumping probe into EU pork imports, asserting that the EU's pricing practices were detrimental to its local producers.

China puts anti-dumping tariff on EU pork importsSupply Chain BrainCNBCTaipei TimesChina puts five-year duties on EU porkReutersChina imposes tariffs on EU pork

The new tariffs will impact major pork-exporting countries within the EU, including Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands. Spain, which has been a leading exporter of pork to China, will see its tariffs set at 9.8%, while some companies, like Litera Meat, will benefit from the lowest rate of 4.9%. The EU is the world's largest pork exporter, with China being its largest market, accounting for over half of its pork exports in recent years.

China’s 19.8% tariffs on EU pork imports affect Faes Farma: animal nutrition division, specifically pigs, accounts for 13% of revenueChina puts anti-dumping tariff on EU pork importsChina trims anti-dumping levy on EU pork, keeps measures for five yearsReutersChina sets import tariff of almost 10 per cent on Belgian porkCityLab

The European Commission has expressed concern over the Chinese investigation, describing it as based on "questionable allegations and insufficient evidence." It is currently assessing the compliance of the new tariffs with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. The Commission has pledged to defend the rights of EU producers against what it considers an abusive use of trade defense instruments.

EU raises concerns over China pork tariffs

Chinese officials, including He Yadong, spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, have defended the tariffs, stating that they are necessary to protect domestic industries facing challenges from imported goods. He emphasized the importance of maintaining fair trade practices and urged the EU to refrain from using restrictive trade measures.

China expects EU to restrain using restrictive tools in trade

Critics within the EU, including industry groups like Copa and Cogeca, have condemned the tariffs, arguing that they will cause serious damage to European pig producers. They assert that the allegations of dumping are unfounded and that the tariffs will exacerbate the existing trade imbalance between the EU and China, which already stood at €305 billion in 2022.

China puts anti-dumping tariff on EU pork imports

The imposition of these tariffs is likely to escalate tensions between the EU and China, as both sides have been increasingly using trade remedies in response to perceived unfair practices. The EU is expected to continue scrutinizing China's actions, while China may pursue further investigations into other EU products, including dairy and brandy. The ongoing dialogue regarding electric vehicle tariffs will also remain a critical area of focus in the bilateral relationship.

China trims anti-dumping levy on EU pork, keeps measures for five years

• “The ruling report indicates that the relevant pork and pork by-products imported from the EU were being dumped, causing substantial damage to the domestic industry in China,” — Chinese Ministry of Commerce

China puts five-year duties on EU pork

• “The Commission is examining the provisional definitive duties announced and is carefully assessing all the information available against compliance with WTO rules,” — European Commission Spokesperson

EU raises concerns over China pork tariffs

• “We hope that the EU will work with China in the same direction, earnestly implement the important consensus reached at the China-EU Summit and demonstrate genuine sincerity.” — He Yadong, Ministry of Commerce Spokesperson

China, EU in consultations on electric vehicles: spokesman

This evolving trade dispute highlights the complexities of EU-China economic relations, marked by retaliatory measures and ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving significant trade imbalances.

China expects EU to restrain using restrictive tools in trade