Will EU get a larger slice of China's pork market?

Chinese pork importers are looking forward to increased demand in 2010 and many of them are counting on the EU for supply.

For most of 2009, Chinese pork importers were faced with challenges including the economic slow-down and weaker demand as a result of AH1N1.

Even though last year's overall import volumes declined, the EU increased its share of imports. In 2008 the EU accounted for 42% of Chinese pork imports, which increased to 60% of imports in 2009. On the other hand, Canadian and US volumes declined by a combined 190,000 tonnes.

US share of the market declined from nearly 50% in 2008 to less than 20% last year.

American imports were severely impacted by the outbreak of AH1N1 as China suspended pork imports from regions affected in the US. Some trade contacts have also noted the ongoing issue with North American use of hormones - not used by EU suppliers - on pigs.

In 2009, Spain benefited significantly on China's switch from North American to EU pork. Meanwhile, Germany and the UK await market approval. Further growth prospects exist for EU pork in China for the coming year.