China imposed import tariffs on pork from the European Union at the start of September, ranging from 15.6% to 62.4%, as a temporary measure while conducting an anti-dumping investigation. Following the completion of this investigation, Beijing has announced permanent anti-dumping duties that will now range from 4.9% to 19.8%.
For Belgium, the previously imposed maximum tariff of 62.4% has been reduced to 9.8%, according to the Belgian meat sector federation (Febev).
Febev CEO Michael Gore described the decision as positive news for the pork sector, providing a clear operational framework, although he noted that the situation will continue to be monitored closely. The Boerenbond stated that the earlier tariff of 62.4% had halted exports to China, and the reduction in customs duties is particularly welcome, as noted by chairman Lode Ceyssens.
Belgium, while relatively small, plays a significant role in the pork industry, producing around 1 million tons annually, with most of it being exported. Exports to China, approximately 15,000 tons each year, primarily consist of pig parts that are less favored domestically, such as feet and ears, which are considered delicacies in China. In the first nine months of 2025, Belgian exports to China were valued at nearly 20 million euros, according to Febev.
Belgium’s pork market opened to Chinese companies in 2012, but an embargo was unexpectedly placed on Belgian pork in 2018 due to African swine fever, which was only lifted in early 2024.
(Brussels, 16 December 2025)
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