This measure could heighten tensions in one of the world’s largest trading relationships, as the European Union is the second-largest producer of pork after China.
Beijing has initiated an investigation into pork prices from the European Union, just days after Brussels raised tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. This action targets one of the EU’s key food export sectors and could be seen as a response to the EU’s preliminary tariffs.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that local agricultural producers have requested an antidumping investigation into pork and pork products from the EU. A preliminary review suggests that there are sufficient grounds to initiate a formal investigation to determine whether the prices are artificially low and could undermine the competitiveness of Chinese producers.
Beijing’s decision to investigate European pork prices comes amid increasing trade tensions between China and the European Union, with both sides taking measures that could negatively impact their economies. The EU is the world’s second-largest pork producer and heavily relies on exports to sustain its agricultural industry.
The investigation is expected to be completed within a year but can be extended by an additional six months if necessary. This situation creates uncertainties for European exporters, who now face the possibility of new barriers to accessing the Chinese market. In the case of dumping practices, China may impose additional tariffs or other import restrictions on EU pork, further escalating trade tensions.

The current dispute highlights the fragility of global trade relations and the speed with which retaliatory measures can be implemented in response to tariff policies. Both sides have significant interests to protect, which could lead to a prolonged process of negotiations and unfavorable trade measures.
An increase in import tariffs could mean substantial costs for European pork producers if it leads to reduced demand in China, the largest global market for this product and the main target of EU exports. The European Union is the second-largest pork producer in the world after China.
Last year, according to customs authorities, the EU exported over €2.5 billion (about $2.7 billion) worth of pork, including by-products, to China. Spain was responsible for almost half of this amount, while the Netherlands, Denmark, and France also contributed significant quantities.
Recently, Beijing has initiated an antidumping investigation into imported cognac from the EU, which could lead to tariffs affecting French cognac producers. Analysts from the Rhodium Group suggest that China might also target European wine and other luxury goods.
Olof Gill, spokesperson for the European Commission, told reporters on Monday that the EU will closely monitor the pork investigation and “intervene if necessary” to ensure that the investigation complies with World Trade Organization rules.
This situation underscores the sensitivity of trade relations between the EU and China and emphasizes the need for a delicate balance in trade policies to avoid escalations that could harm both sides.
When asked about the significant agricultural subsidies from the EU, Gill stated that the bloc is “not concerned” that the WTO might rule in favor of China. He emphasized that “all subsidies are strictly in line with our WTO commitments.”
It is widely expected that Beijing will take specific measures to deter the EU from permanently raising tariffs on imported electric cars from China, a decision the EU is expected to make by November. The preliminary tariffs will take effect on July 4.
Recently, the European Commission announced that additional tariffs of 17.4% to 38.1% will be imposed on electric vehicles made in China, in addition to the existing 10% EU tariff. This will bring the total rate to about 50%.
These measures reflect an escalation of trade tensions between the EU and China, with both sides seeking to protect their economic interests amid increasingly intense tariff disputes.
Beijing immediately criticized the EU measure, warning that it could hinder its goals to boost electric vehicle exports and potentially encourage Chinese automakers to establish production facilities in Europe.
In response, Brussels is investigating China’s state support for wind turbine and solar module manufacturers. There are concerns that the overcapacity in the Chinese industry might flood other markets with cheap exports.
These actions reflect a rise in trade tensions between the EU and China, with both sides aiming to protect their strategic sectors and avoid unfair trade practices that could impact global markets.
These recent measures highlight an escalation in trade tensions between the European Union and China, with both economic blocs seeking to protect their industrial and commercial interests. While the EU imposes additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, Beijing criticizes this measure as harmful to its exports and potentially beneficial for Chinese manufacturers to establish production facilities in Europe.
At the same time, the EU’s investigation into China’s state support for wind turbines and solar modules reflects concerns about unfair trade practices and the impact of Chinese industry overcapacity on global markets. These issues pose significant challenges in international trade, where economic competition often intersects with strategic and political interests.
The outcomes of these disputes will have significant implications not only for the specific sectors involved but also for global trade and investment dynamics. As negotiations continue, both sides face the challenge of balancing economic interests with adherence to international trade rules.
The escalation of trade tensions between the EU and China could also negatively impact cooperation in areas such as climate change and technology, where both blocs have common interests. While they seek to resolve their trade differences, it is crucial for the EU and China to engage in constructive dialogue and seek solutions that promote fair and balanced trade while supporting innovation and sustainable development. The path forward will depend on how well both parties manage to balance healthy economic competition with strategic cooperation on a global scale.