Protected European Cheese Brands Face Chinese Market Barriers

Chinese authorities have imposed provisional tariffs of 21.9% to 42.7% on certain European Union dairy imports following an anti-subsidy investigation. The duties, effective Tuesday, largely settle around 30% for most companies. Protected origin cheeses including French roquefort and Italian gorgonzola are among the specifically targeted products.
Brussels has condemned the move in strong terms, calling it unjustified and based on insufficient evidence. The European Commission spokesperson emphasized that the investigation relies on questionable allegations. European officials are reviewing the decision and preparing formal objections for Chinese authorities.
Trade tensions began in 2023 when Europe initiated an investigation into subsidies for Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers. China has retaliated with tariffs on multiple EU products including spirits, meat, and dairy. While maintaining a firm stance, Beijing has occasionally shown willingness to negotiate, sometimes reducing provisional tariffs in final rulings.
Under the new system, approximately 60 companies face varying tariff rates. Arla Foods will pay 28.6% to 29.7% on brands like Lurpak and Castello. Italy’s Sterilgarda Alimenti secured the lowest rate at 21.9%, while FrieslandCampina’s Belgian and Dutch operations face the highest rate of 42.7%. Non-cooperative companies automatically receive maximum tariffs.
Chinese dairy producers are expected to benefit from these protective measures as they deal with excess supply and falling prices. Declining birthrates and more cost-conscious consumers have reduced demand. Last year, China imported $589 million in affected dairy products. Authorities previously urged domestic producers to limit output and reduce herd sizes to address market imbalances.