China bans Dutch pig bones

The export of Dutch pig bones to China has been stopped by the Chinese authorities. The measure has been in effect since Friday 19 January. This means that export containers, which are currently on their way, are no longer allowed to enter the country. A major setback for abattoirs.

The measure concerns the export of pig breast, back and neck bones. Parts such as the buttocks and bow pipes are also excluded. Chinese authorities want to get an idea of ​​which pig parts are entering the country. Until recently, various bones were exported to China under one name. This is now suddenly no longer allowed, so that new export licenses have to be requested. Reportedly, several countries, including Belgium, are struggling with the problem.

Disappointment for slaughterhouses
According to David van Sommeren, meat seller at Compaxo Zevenaar, it is a setback for slaughterhouses. The shipments that are now on their way to China may have to be destroyed or returned. "It is therefore a serious problem."

Van Sommeren cannot estimate the economic consequences of the import ban. In any case, the risk lies with the exporting party; in this case the slaughterhouses. An alternative market must now be sought for the bones. According to Van Sommeren, there are, for example in South Korea. Because several countries are struggling with the problem, it is now likely to become urgent to deposit the bones here.

The problem would have been even greater if the export of heads and legs had also been halted. According to Van Sommeren, that is not the case now. "It only concerns the least valuable parts of the pig. Although it does not benefit the already slow meat sales at the beginning of 2018, and therefore the pig price, in any case."

Working on solution
Frans van Dongen, press officer at the COV, acknowledges the problem, but does not want to say anything about it substantively. "That is not in the interest of the solutions, which we are working hard on." According to Van Dongen, the COV and the Dutch government are doing everything they can to be allowed to export pig bones to China again. "We have the problem clearly in our sights."

Van Sommeren indicates that we now have to wait and see. In view of the viscous processes, which are the property of the Chinese government, this may take some time. Vion refers to the COV for a substantive response. 

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is editor-in-chief of Boerenbusiness. He also focuses on dairy, pig and meat markets. He also follows (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

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