A spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce answers reporters' questions on the adoption of safeguard measures for imported beef

A reporter asked: We have noticed that the Ministry of Commerce issued an announcement on December 31, 2025, announcing safeguard measures for imported beef. Could you brief us on the relevant situation?

Answer: Upon the application of domestic industries, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) initiated a case on December 27, 2024, to launch a safeguard measure investigation on imported beef. After filing the case, MOFCOM conducted the investigation in accordance with laws and regulations, extensively listened to the opinions of all stakeholders, comprehensively and carefully evaluated and analyzed relevant evidence materials, and formed an objective and fair investigation conclusion.

On December 31, 2025, the Ministry of Commerce issued an announcement ruling that the increase in the quantity of imported beef had caused serious damage to China's domestic industry, and there was a causal relationship between the two. It was decided to implement safeguard measures on imported beef in the form of "country-specific quotas and additional tariffs beyond the quotas", with an implementation period of three years. During the implementation period, the quantity of country-specific quotas will increase year by year.

The implementation of safeguard measures for imported beef aims to help domestic industries tide over difficulties in a phased manner, rather than to restrict normal beef trade. The Chinese market has always been open, and there is ample room for cooperation in beef trade with our trading partners. China is willing to work with all parties to maintain a healthy and stable international trade environment.

Information source: website of the Ministry of Commerce