The Ministry of Commerce Photo: VCG

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) on Wednesday announced the extension of its ongoing safeguard investigation into imported beef. Citing the complicated nature of the case, the MOFCOM said that the investigation period will be extended until November 26, 2025.

According to the MOFCOM, the decision was made in accordance with the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Safeguard Measures. The original investigation was launched on December 27, 2024.

The ministry said it has been conducting the safeguard investigation into beef imports in accordance with legal procedures, including questionnaires, public hearings, and on-site inspections, to gather evidence and solicit broad input from all interested parties, in a bid to ensure the investigation process remains objective and fair, according to a statement published on the ministry's official website.

The case has drawn widespread attention, and governments, industry associations, and producers from exporting countries and regions - as well as domestic trade groups, livestock farmers, and importers - have submitted a large volume of data and written materials, according to the statement.

Authorities are now thoroughly reviewing all submissions and carefully assessing whether the case meets the legal threshold for imposing safeguard measures, it said.

"Given the volume of work involved and the complexity of the case, the investigation authorities has decided to extend the investigation period by three months to November 26, 2025, in accordance with Chinese law and WTO rules," the ministry said in the statement.

Investigation authorities will continue to advance the investigation in accordance with the law and deliver an objective and fair ruling based on the findings, the MOFCOM said. "China will also maintain communication with all parties to jointly uphold a healthy and stable international trade environment," the ministry said.

Global Times