Brussels wants to protect the pig sector from China

The European Commission is contemplating steps to protect the European pig sector. This was stated by Euro Commissioner Andrius Kubilius yesterday afternoon during a debate in the European Parliament regarding the decision by China to impose high import duties on the import of pork from European producers. China announced significant import duties last week for various European producers of pork. This is the outcome of an anti-dumping investigation that the country started in June last year following the import duties that the EU imposed on Chinese electric cars. Different rates apply. Westfort, Compaxo, and Van Rooi Meat are on a list from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and are taxed at 20%. In the Netherlands, Vion is hardest hit at 32.7%. However, European companies that are not on the list will face even higher import duties of 62.4%. China is a core market for European pork The countermeasures from China are unjust and a clear violation of international trade rules, according to Euro Commissioner Kubilius. China is a core market for European pork, and together with the sector, the Commission will look at the facts to determine what the next steps will be. And the Commission is keeping all options open to protect the European industry and economic interests. Earlier in the day, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg during her annual State of the Union. She opened her speech particularly sharply with the message that Europe must fight: for a free and independent Europe, our freedom, and to determine our own fate. According to her, Europe must fight 'for its place in a world where several great powers adopt a double-edged or outright hostile stance toward Europe'. 'Agriculture needs fair competition and a level playing field' In addition to discussing the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, the Commission President addressed the competitiveness of Europe and European agriculture. It is facing headwinds, according to von der Leyen, 'ranging from high production costs to bureaucratic red tape or unfair competition'. Simplification of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and income support in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) is not sufficient, says the President: Our farmers need fair competition and a level playing field. The European Commission will evaluate the implementation of legislation on unfair trading practices and take action where necessary, she indicated. Although not stated in so many words, Euro Commissioner Kubilius interprets von der Leyen's words during the debate on China's high import duties for European pork producers as a clear signal to China. According to him, it has been made clear that if China continues this, 'the European Union will use all the instruments we have to ensure fair competition and to defend our own interests'. The EU's relationship with China is important; it concerns trade and investments, but for the EU, it is crucial to bring balance to the relationship: predictability, transparency, and reciprocity. He also points out that von der Leyen has stated 'that the European Commission will do everything possible to protect European farmers and exporters when it comes to such abuse of trade instruments'.