Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) member, the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) has expressed its disappointed by last night's announcement from China's Ministry of Commerce to impose safeguard measures on all Chinese beef imports from 1 January 2026.
"These restrictions are neither fair nor reflective of the long-standing, mutually beneficial trade relationship between our nations, and they risk significantly disrupting Australian beef exports—potentially reducing trade by one-third, worth more than A$1 billion.
Despite AMIC and MLA's extensive engagement throughout MOFCOM's year-long investigation, including formal evidence and in-person hearings, this decision appears to disadvantage Australia while rewarding countries that have rapidly increased volumes into China in recent years. Australian beef remains safe, high quality and sustainably produced, yet accounts for just 8% of China's imports, compared to nearly 80% from South America.
AMIC will now review the measures in detail and continue making strong representations to both governments on behalf of our members to highlight the severe and unnecessary impact on industry and on Chinese consumers who rely on trusted Australian product."
AMIC Media Release available HERE