August 25, 2020

 

China imports record 430,000 tonnes of pork in July

 

China's customs data showed the country imported a record 430,000 tonnes of pork in July, more than double the amount imported in 2019 and a record monthly volume even though strict checks have been implemented at port entry points, Reuters reported.

 

The data from the General Administration of Customs came as a shock as many approved overseas meat plant had their operations temporarily halted after reporting COVID-19 outbreaks among their workers.

 

The data does not specify the origins of the imported pork, but an industry source told Reuters that major suppliers such as Brazil, Canada, the European Union and the United States had exported less meat to China in June.

 

In June, China said it imported 400,000 tonnes of pork, which was a record.

 

Pan Chenjun, Rabobanksenior analyst said the record imports was amazing as operations at meat plants in Europe and the US were suspended or reduced.

 

China begun implementing strict COVID-19 coronavirus checks on food shipments at entry ports, as well as informed approved overseas plants to stop exports if a COVID-19 outbreak was discovered among workers.

 

Pork prices in China have gone up to CNY 51.17 (~US$7.40; CNY 1 = US$0.14) per kg, its highest since February.

 

The first seven months of 2020 saw pork imports hit 2.56 million tonnes, 1 million tonnes high compared to the year prior.

 

Customs data also showed 560,000 tonnes of pork was imported, including offal in July. This means total imports between January to July 2020 was 3.38 million tonnes.

 

210,000 tonnes of beef was imported to China in July, with 1.2 million tonnes brought in between January to July 2020.

 

-      Reuters