我国对进口牛肉实施保障措施 释放哪些信号？

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Commerce has decided to implement safeguard measures on imported beef for three years, from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028, due to significant damage to the domestic industry caused by increased imports and declining prices [1][2]. Group 1: Impact on Domestic Industry - The average retail price of beef in 36 major cities dropped to 36.82 yuan per pound by March 19, 2025, marking a six-year low, which has severely pressured the domestic beef industry [1]. - The surge in imported beef, which increased by 73.2% from 2019 to 2024, has led to a significant market share shift, with imports rising from 20% to approximately 30% during the same period [2]. - The domestic beef industry is facing substantial losses, with many farmers reducing their cattle herds due to unprofitable prices, leading to a potential long-term supply shortage [2][6]. Group 2: Safeguard Measures Implementation - The safeguard measures are designed to provide a temporary relief to the domestic industry without restricting normal beef trade, reflecting a balanced approach to protect local interests while maintaining openness to international trade [4][5]. - The measures include country-specific quotas and additional tariffs on imports exceeding these quotas, rather than imposing blanket tariffs, to minimize disruption to normal trade [5]. - This is the third instance of China implementing safeguard measures since joining the WTO, indicating a cautious approach to trade protectionism [5]. Group 3: Future Industry Outlook - The implementation of safeguard measures is expected to create a buffer period for the domestic beef industry, allowing for necessary adjustments and improvements in production efficiency [3][6]. - The industry anticipates that with the support of these measures, beef consumption demand will rise, potentially leading to a reasonable recovery in beef prices by 2026 [7]. - The Ministry of Agriculture supports these measures as a means to control import levels and address the immediate challenges faced by the domestic industry, while also promoting sustainable development in the beef sector [6].