During the executive meeting of the State Council on 29 Sep 2014, policies and measures to increase importation of muscle meats and aquatic products were determined. A consensus between governmental officials was reached which advocated the use of a new stimulus program to increase importation of meats and aquatic products to meet growing domestic demand. Beef, lamb and aquatic products are currently in high demand in the Chinese market.
The most important part of the program will see China gradually simplify import management. For instance, customs will implement a 24-hour (and national holiday) customs clearance service. E-clearance schemes will be scaled up and the number of government-recognized testing agencies will be increased. Shen Lisheng, expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said, “As long as there is no significant impact on domestic industries, it is a must to enhance imports in China”.
Chinese importation of US Carp is a particularly interesting case. Carp is an introduced species in the States and has no commercial value in US domestic markets however it is a popular food in China. One of the newly announced strategies has highlighted the possibility of China importing US carp. This case highlights the willingness of China’s government to explore all opportunities for increased trade.
China is looking to address its current trade surplus by importing foreign goods which are in high demand and according to Prof. Chen Bo at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, “It is rarely seen that the government release such intense measures to enhance imports, even agricultural products are concerned.” The important message for manufacturers, farmers, exporters etc. is that in the coming months and years the Chinese market will offer far greater potential than ever before.