China introduces import tariffs on EU dairy products

China has imposed provisional import tariffs on certain dairy products in the latest stage of its trade dispute with the EU.

The Commerce Ministry in Beijing announced on Monday that this was a preliminary decision in an investigation that has been ongoing since August 2024. The duties are to apply from December 23.

China accuses the EU of significantly subsidizing its dairy industry.

Imports from Europe had noticeably harmed Chinese producers, it said.

The provisional tariff rates being imposed now are between 21.9-42.7%, according to the statement.

Trade tensions between China and the EU have been growing for several years.

In 2023, Brussels launched an investigation against electric cars manufactured in China, accusing Beijing of helping the industry with excessive state subsidies.

Beijing subsequently responded with its own investigations and tariffs on imports from the EU, including spirits, pork and dairy products.

The Commerce Ministry pointed out that Beijing had not initiated any new investigations against the EU since 2025, but had only concluded three existing anti-dumping proceedings.

The EU has pursued numerous proceedings against China in the same period, it said.

China's investigation into dairy products is to continue until a final decision is made, the ministry said.