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16h ago

China Launches Beef Import Safeguards With Country Quotas and 55% Above-Quota Tariff

Beijing says the three-year measure follows a year-long probe that found surging imports hurt domestic producers.

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SHENZHEN, CHINA - APRIL 12: Packaged U.S. imported beef is displayed for sale at a supermarket, with marbled cuts individually wrapped and labeled with U.S. Beef stickers featuring the American flag, on April 12, 2025 in Shenzhen, China. China has imposed a new round of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, raising duties to 125% in response to the latest escalation by the United States, which increased tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%. The growing trade tensions have further impacted China's export sector, affecting key industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and cross-border e-commerce. The measures are part of Beijing's broader strategy to counter rising economic pressure and defend its trade interests.
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Overview

  • China’s safeguard regime is now in effect and will run through December 31, 2028, with annual quotas that rise slightly each year.
  • For 2026 the total quota is 2.7 million tonnes, including about 1.1 million for Brazil, roughly half that for Argentina, around 200,000–205,000 for Australia, and 164,000 for the United States, with a 55% surcharge once caps are exceeded.
  • China also suspended part of its free-trade agreement with Australia covering beef, prompting Canberra to voice disappointment and flag diplomatic engagement.
  • Australia’s industry warns shipments to China could drop by about one third, costing more than A$1 billion, while Brazil plans bilateral talks and work within the WTO framework.
  • Impact differs across suppliers: U.S. exporters expect limited near-term effect given current volumes, and New Zealand’s trade minister says its allocation should largely shield local exporters.