Summary
The European Union (EU) has initiated a challenge at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China’s investigation into EU dairy products, which China claims are unfairly subsidized. This action marks a significant shift in the EU’s approach, as it is the first time they have responded at the outset of such an investigation rather than waiting for potential trade measures to materialize.
The conflict arose after the EU imposed provisional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting China to launch an anti-subsidy investigation on August 21, targeting various dairy products including liquid milk and cream. The European Commission asserts that its agricultural subsidies comply with international regulations and do not harm the Chinese dairy industry. The WTO proceedings will begin with a 60-day consultation period, during which both parties are expected to negotiate. If no resolution is reached, the EU plans to request the establishment of an adjudicating panel, a process that typically takes over a year to conclude. This situation reflects ongoing tensions between the EU and China, with both sides engaging in reciprocal trade investigations and measures in recent months.
EU challenges China's dairy product probe at WTO
Sep. 23 / Voanews “ The European Commission launched a challenge at the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Monday against China's investigation into EU dairy products, initiated...
EU calls on World Trade Organization in dairy spat with China
Sep. 23 / Yahoo! News “ The European Union called on Monday on the World Trade Organization (WTO) to start dispute settlement proceedings in a spat with China over dairy products....