Barrels of cognac Photo: VCG

Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong said on Thursday that relevant authorities are reviewing price commitment application submitted by EU brandy exporters as well as public comments following an earlier preliminary ruling, and the ministry will make a final decision in accordance with Chinese law. 

At Thursday's press conference, He Yadong was responding to a media inquiry about China's possible tariffs on importing French brandy — which makes up 99 percent of China's total annual brandy imports — as Chinese officials are scheduled to pay a visit to France for an economic and trade dialogue.

The spokesperson noted that MOFCOM launched an anti-dumping investigation into EU brandy imports on January 5, 2024, following a formal petition from China's domestic industry stakeholders. Due to the complexity of the case, the investigation period has been extended and is scheduled to conclude by July 5, 2025.

He Yadong emphasized that the investigative authority is now reviewing the price undertaking applications submitted by EU exporters, along with the feedback from relevant parties following a preliminary ruling earlier.

The ministry will issue a final decision within the scheduled timeframe, based on the facts of the case and the investigation conducted in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, the spokesperson said, adding that China maintains an open attitude toward resolving economic and trade differences through dialogue and consultation.

Global Times