EU Challenges China's CVD Probe of Dairy Products at WTO

The European Commission on Sept. 23 filed a consultation request at the World Trade Organization on China's decision to open a countervailing duty investigation on certain dairy products from the EU, the commission announced. The challenge marks the first time the EU has contested a decision to initiate an investigation, the EU said.

The commission said there is an "emerging pattern of China initiating trade defence measures, based on questionable allegations and insufficient evidence, within a short period of time." The EU cited its commitment to defend its dairy industry and the Common Agricultural Policy against "abusive proceedings."

China opened its investigation in August (see 2408210025). Should the consultations on the investigation fall through, the EU could request a dispute panel be established to settle the case.