China's probe into imported beef is protectionist in nature, analysts say

China's Ministry of Commerce announced on Friday (27) an investigation into beef imports by the Asian giant. The search for in-depth information will focus on purchases of fresh beef, chilled beef, beef heads and frozen beef imported between January 1, 2019 and June 30, 2024, according to data from local authorities. The investigation involves all exporters of beef protein to China and was declared based on formal requests by entities representing the livestock sector in the Asian giant. The measure, although incipient and without concrete consequences, causes some concerns, since China is the largest importer of Brazilian beef protein, as highlighted by the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (ABIEC). “In 2024, more than 1 million tons were exported to China, a fundamental supply to complement local Chinese production, currently estimated at 12 million tons,” the entity pointed out in a note. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) issued an official note ...