Investigations into beef: The Ministry of Commerce in Beijing has launched an investigation into beef imports. The background to this is that an oversupply of goods is causing problems for Chinese cattle breeders. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, suppliers from Brazil, Argentina, and Australia may face sanctions in the form of higher import duties. The Chinese authorities are therefore scrutinizing imports of fresh meat, beef heads, and frozen beef. According to the ministry, the investigation was initiated by Chinese livestock associations. They complain that the sharp increase in import volumes has „seriously damaged“ the domestic industry.