China curbs beef imports with added tariffs to protect domestic industry

China will impose a 55% tariff on beef imports that exceed quota levels for covered supplier countries, with a total 2026 quota of about 2.7 million tonnes; the measure takes effect on Jan. 1 and runs for three years.

China announced safeguard measures that add a 55% tariff on beef imports above quota levels for several supplier countries. The commerce ministry said the move aims to protect a domestic cattle industry that is emerging from a period of oversupply. The total import quota for 2026 under the measures is about 2.7 million metric tonnes, roughly in line with 2024's record imports. The action follows an investigation launched in December and two subsequent extensions. Key details: - The additional tariff rate is 55% on beef imports that exceed quota levels; the measure takes effect on January 1 and will run for three years. - Total quota volumes (1,000 tonnes) are set at 2,688 for 2026, 2,742 for 2027 and 2,797 for 2028. - The 2026 quota breakdown (1,000 tonnes) is Brazil 1,106; Argentina 511; Uruguay 324; New Zealand 206; Australia 205; United States 164; Other countries/regions 172. - Reported 2024 imports included about 1.34 million tonnes from Brazil, 594,567 tonnes from Argentina, 243,662 tonnes from Uruguay, 216,050 tonnes from Australia, 150,514 tonnes from New Zealand and 138,112 tonnes from the United States. - Chinese customs data showed Australian shipments rose to 294,957 tonnes in the first 11 months of this year, above the quota level set for Australia under the new measures. Officials said the probe does not target any particular country. Summary: The measures are described by authorities as intended to curb import growth and give domestic breeding and processing enterprises time to adjust and upgrade. A Beijing analyst was quoted as saying a decline in China's beef imports in 2026 is unavoidable. The tariffs apply for a three-year period and the total quota is scheduled to increase annually.