China will impose tariffs of up to 11.7% on several European dairy products following the conclusion of an anti-subsidy investigation into EU financial aid for farmers. The investigation, launched in August 2024, sought to determine whether subsidies under the CAP and other types of payments, including premiums for environmentally friendly practices, distort competition and harm Chinese producers. The new tariffs will affect a range of dairy products, including various types of cheese, milk and cream.

According to the tariff list, most exporters will be subject to tariffs of 11.7%, while more than 50 companies, including French dairy giant Lactalis, Danish company Arla and Italian company Zanetti, will pay a lower rate of 9.5%. Beijing had already imposed high temporary tariffs of 21.9% to 42.7% last month, which will now be reduced as part of the final decision.