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China non-tariff trade barriers remain an obstacle for U.S. beef

U.S. beef producers continue to call on China to lift its non-tariff trade barriers.

Ashley Kohls with the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association says a very small amount of American beef currently qualifies for the Chinese market.

“They want traceability as a requirement to get in there. But also, when it comes to science and technology like implants, (those) are not allowed in product going into China.”

China recently resumed limited purchases of U.S. beef after a 14-year hiatus.

Kohls tells Brownfield the African swine fever outbreak could lead to greater access.

“Because of the limited pork that they have in country, and their need for protein, we’re hopeful those conversations will flip into our favor when it comes to getting more beef into China.”

Chinese officials now estimate a 23 percent reduction to its domestic hog herd because of ASF.  The U.S. pork industry believes losses are much higher.