LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — China sharply increased rejections of meat imports in 2025, raising new regulatory risk for U.S. livestock exporters. The spike adds uncertainty amid elevated trade tensions between Beijing and key suppliers.
According to retired USDA economist Dr. Fred Gale, last year the total number of food rejections from China rose 55 percent compared to 2024, while shipment volume jumped 150 percent. Of 4,889 rejected shipments, more than 1,000 came from the United States — the highest of any country.
Meat accounted for nearly 1,800 rejected shipments totaling about 25,000 metric tons. U.S. beef was frequently flagged for melengestrol acetate, while chicken feet failed sensory inspections or labeling reviews. Melengestrol acetate is a synthetic hormone fed only to feedlot heifers to prevent heat cycles, reduce stress, and improve feed efficiency and weight gain.
The surge coincided with antidumping duties on pork from the European Union (EU), safeguard tariffs on beef, and broader efforts by Chinese authorities to support domestic meat producers.
For U.S. exporters, inspection enforcement now poses a growing non-tariff barrier that could quickly shift protein trade flows.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Heightened Chinese inspections increase trade volatility for U.S. livestock exporters.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Policy awareness is becoming part of everyday risk management.
February 25, 2026 04:50 PM
·
Analysts warn the closed U.S.-Mexico border is straining cattle supplies and packing capacity. StoneX and USDA data point to long-term industry shifts.
February 25, 2026 12:37 PM
·
USDA’s 2026 Food Price Outlook projects food prices rising 3.1%, with higher beef costs and falling egg prices shaping consumer trends.
February 25, 2026 11:46 AM
·
High beef prices are squeezing South Texas restaurants, but Texas Farm Bureau says consumer demand remains strong despite record costs.
February 25, 2026 11:12 AM
·
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.
February 24, 2026 01:30 PM
·
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
February 24, 2026 11:57 AM
·
