China imposes an additional 55% import duty on certain beef products from 1 January

China announced on Wednesday that it will impose an additional 55% duty on imports of certain beef products from countries such as Brazil, Australia and the United States that exceed their quotas, starting from 1 January.

A statement from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce explained the decision on the grounds that excess beef imports are harming Chinese producers. The additional duty will apply to fresh, frozen, bone-in and boneless beef.

The ministry described the three-year levies as "protective measures" and said they would be gradually reduced.

Brazil has a quota of 1.1 million tonnes, Argentina – about half that, Australia – about 200,000 tonnes and the US – 164,000 tonnes of annual supply.

China's Ministry of Commerce has also announced that part of the free trade agreement with Australia covering beef is on hold.