The European Commission opened an investigation on Thursday into Chinese Peking duck imports after complaints from several EU producers who allege unfair pricing and support for Chinese production. The Commission said five EU producers raised the case, claiming China subsidises domestic production through its agricultural modernisation framework.

Officials said the imports have had a negative effect on EU industry outcomes, including reduced quantities sold, lower price levels, and loss of market share—amounting to substantial adverse effects on the sector’s overall performance. The investigation could ultimately lead to anti-dumping measures, such as duties, aimed at protecting the EU market.

The action is unfolding during heightened EU-China tensions. Brussels has sought to shield its market from low-cost Chinese imports, a move that Beijing has criticised while the two sides work to manage disputes through talks. The EU also recently moved to increase focus on trade defence tools amid concerns about the trade imbalance with China. Separately, reporting on the case notes that the complaint alleges Chinese producers benefit from state support and lower-cost inputs such as feed, and points to the role of major duck-producing regions in China.