Politics
ASIA, BEIJING, CANADA, CHICAGO, CHINA, CONSUMER PROTECTION, DONALD TRUMP, ECONOMIC IMPACT, FOOD INDUSTRY, FOOD SAFETY, GREG TYLER, HONG KONG, JAPAN, JOE SCHUELE, MEXICO, NORTH AMERICA, PUBLIC HEALTH, REUTERS, SHIMBUN, SMITHFIELD, TRADE, U. S, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, U. S. MEAT EXPORT FEDERATION, UNITED STATES
Omar El-Sharif
China Renews Export Registrations for U.S. Pork and Poultry Facilities
Beijing has renewed export registrations for U.S. pork and poultry facilities for five years, relieving exporters amidst trade disputes. This follows the expiration of numerous registrations linked to the 2020 “Phase 1” trade deal, which aimed to increase U.S. imports by China. While pork facilities are positively impacted, there is uncertainty surrounding the status of beef exports. The recent imposition of tariffs by China on American goods adds further complexity to the trade relationship.
Beijing has officially renewed the export registrations for hundreds of U.S. pork and poultry facilities, as confirmed by industry groups. This development is a significant relief for U.S. farmers and meat companies, who have been navigating complex trade disputes under the Trump administration. The renewed registrations are valid for five years, alleviating previous concerns over potential shipment lapses, especially given that a substantial number had expired earlier this month.
The registrations, which had lapsed on Sunday, were initially part of the 2020 “Phase 1” trade deal aimed at resolving trade tensions between the U.S. and China. This deal included a commitment from China to increase imports of U.S. goods by $200 billion over two years. However, fulfillment of this target was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Greg Tyler, CEO of the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council, expressed relief at the renewals, stating that many exporters were anxiously awaiting the outcome. Although shipments have been processing from facilities with expired registrations, there was uncertainty regarding the sustainability of these operations. Meanwhile, U.S. beef facilities are yet to receive similar renewals, raising concerns among exporters.
Joe Schuele from the U.S. Meat Export Federation welcomed the news about pork facilities while hoping for updates regarding beef. The renewed registrations come amidst China’s recent imposition of retaliatory tariffs on approximately $21 billion worth of American agricultural products, including pork, beef, and dairy.
In 2024, the U.S. was positioned as China’s third-largest meat supplier, trailing Brazil and Argentina, accounting for 9% of the nation’s total meat imports. Despite challenges such as outbreaks of bird flu affecting poultry exports, the Chinese market remains critical for U.S. meat producers, emphasizing the importance of the renewed registrations.
In conclusion, the renewal of export registrations for U.S. pork and poultry plants by Beijing has provided significant relief to American exporters amidst ongoing trade tensions. While the pork sector can move forward with renewed confidence, the delay in beef registrations raises concerns. Overall, the situation underscores the intricate dynamics of U.S.-China trade and the importance of maintaining access to the Chinese market for U.S. agricultural producers.
Original Source: www.asahi.com
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