商务部对进口牛肉启动三年保障措施，为国内牛肉产业提供救济

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has announced safeguard measures on imported beef to protect the domestic industry, which has been severely impacted by rising imports and low prices [1][5][9]. Group 1: Safeguard Measures - The safeguard measures will be implemented in the form of "country-specific quotas and additional tariffs" starting January 1, 2026, and will last until December 31, 2028 [1][5]. - The measures include a gradual increase in import quotas for major beef-exporting countries, with total quotas set at 268.8 million tons in 2026, increasing to 279.7 million tons by 2028 [3][5]. - An additional tariff of 55% will be imposed on any imports exceeding the established quotas starting from the third day after the quota is exceeded [6]. Group 2: Impact on Domestic Industry - The rapid increase in beef imports has led to a significant decline in the domestic beef industry, with the import volume rising from 1.66 million tons in 2019 to 2.87 million tons in 2024, a 73.2% increase [1][5]. - The domestic beef industry has faced severe losses, with a reported decline in the breeding cow population by approximately 3% in 2024, threatening the industry's foundation [1][7]. - The entire supply chain, from breeding to processing, has experienced widespread losses, creating a vicious cycle of price drops and further sell-offs [7][8]. Group 3: Industry Recovery and Future Outlook - The safeguard measures are expected to boost industry confidence and lay the groundwork for recovery, although a substantial recovery will take time [2]. - The measures aim to balance the need for domestic industry support while maintaining reasonable trade relations with exporting countries [9]. - The industry is encouraged to enhance competitiveness through policy support, technological advancements, and improved production efficiency [10].