By Ayomide Otitoju
China announced on Tuesday that it will extend its anti-dumping investigation into pork imports from the European Union by six months, marking another chapter in the escalating trade tensions between the two global economic powers.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that the probe, which began last year, would now continue until December 16 due to “the complexity of the case.” The extension comes as China and the EU remain at odds over a series of trade measures, including electric vehicle (EV) tariffs and allegations of unfair state subsidies.
Beijing launched the pork investigation in 2024 shortly after the EU initiated its own inquiry into subsidies supporting China’s EV industry. That probe eventually led Brussels to impose additional import duties of up to 35 percent on Chinese electric vehicles last October, citing concerns that government support was distorting market competition and hurting European manufacturers.
China has consistently denied the allegations of unfair subsidization and responded with retaliatory trade measures, targeting EU exports such as pork, dairy, and brandy. It also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), which in April agreed to establish a dispute panel to assess the EU’s tariff decision.
As tensions simmer, both sides are preparing for a high-level EU-China summit scheduled for next month to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations. Trade is expected to top the agenda, with officials hinting at negotiations on setting minimum prices for Chinese EVs sold in Europe and establishing a “green channel” to facilitate rare earth exports to the EU bloc.
The investigation extension underscores the deepening rift between China and the EU over trade practices and market access, with analysts warning of further friction unless mutual agreements are reached in upcoming talks.
