China opened an investigation into the import of beef into the country from 2019 to the first half of 2024. The investigation for the purpose of applying safeguards, a technical term that involves the protection of strategic sectors, was announced this Friday (28) and covers all exporting countries to the Asian country, including Brazil.
The investigation is expected to last eight months and will be carried out at the request of Chinese producers, on the grounds that increased imports have caused damage to local production.
In a statement, the Brazilian government reported that, in principle, the Chinese did not adopt any preliminary measures, leaving the current tariff of 12% that China applies to beef imports.
China is the main destination for Brazilian beef exports. In 2024, more than 1 million tons were exported to the Asian country, an increase of 12.7% compared to 2023.
The Brazilian government says that, together with national exporters, it will seek to demonstrate that exported Brazilian meat does not cause “any harm” to the Chinese industry, being a complementary factor for 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”, says the joint note from the ministries of Agriculture and Livestock, the Development, Industry, Commerce and Services and Foreign Relations of Brazil.
In a statement, the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (Abiec) stated that it remains committed to cooperating with the Chinese and Brazilian authorities, providing clarifications and actively participating in the investigation process, for “solutions that meet the interests of both nations”. He also reaffirmed that Brazilian beef exported to China is of high quality and follows strict health and safety standards.
