China Extends EU Pork Import Probe Six Months Amid Trade Tensions

China has extended its yearlong investigation into pork imports from the European Union by six months, now set to conclude on December 16, citing the complexity of the case. The probe, which began in June of the previous year, is widely regarded as retaliation against EU anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and has significantly impacted EU pork exports, especially from Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark. This extension coincides with ongoing negotiations between Beijing and Brussels to resolve the EU's electric vehicle tariffs, alongside other trade discussions with the United States. China, the world's largest pork consumer, imported $4.8 billion worth of pork in 2024, over half from the EU, with a large share consisting of offal highly valued in Chinese cuisine. The extension is seen as a goodwill gesture amid China's broader strategy to improve relations with major trading partners amid heightened trade tensions. Chinese authorities emphasize that the probe's continuation ensures a comprehensive review of all aspects of the case.