Browse Data and Analysis

From January 1, 2021, the UK has been responsible for authorizing products of genetic engineering (GE) using retained EU law. Nine GE crops are currently out for public consultation as part of the new UK approval process, with a similar number still pending.

The European Union’s (EU) complex and lengthy policy framework for biotechnology creates a challenging environment for research and limits access to innovative tools for EU farmers.

On December 24, 2021, the State Council Tariff Commission (SCTC) extended the Section 301 retaliatory tariff exclusion period for Sorbitol and other select U.S. commodities.

Since its European Union (EU) accession in 2004, Lithuania has consistently harmonized its domestic food and agricultural regulations with EU standards. Post advises stakeholders to consult with Lithuanian importers and/or buyers to ensure current requirements are met.

Lithuania applies harmonized European Union (EU) regulations, including requisite certificates for most animal and plant-origin food and agricultural imports from non-EU countries.

The General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) has stated that the requirements of Decrees 248 and 249 will go into effect on January 1, 2022.

On December 15, 2021, the European Commission published a Communication on Sustainable Carbon Cycles, which outlines action items for the EU to accelerate carbon removal from the atmosphere.

On December 15, 2021, the State Council Tariff Commission (SCTC) announced its 2022 annual tariff adjustment plan that sets tentative import and export tariff rates for select tariff lines.

Lower overseas demand, competition in key export markets, and COVID-19 related restrictions on imported raw materials in the processing sector reduced China’s 2020 seafood import volume by 12.8 percent to 3.81 MMT.

In July 2021, FAS China staff attended the 7th Food and Beverage Innovation Forum (FBIF). This report includes information and noteworthy trends as presented and discussed at the FBIF, not FAS China’s official data or position.

On December 13, 2021, the European Commission launched a public consultation period for the upcoming revision to the Food Information to Consumers Regulation.

On December 20, 2021, the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) released Announcement No. 110 of 2021 titled Phytosanitary Requirements for Pine Wood from Countries with Pine Wood Nematode Presence.