China lifts ban on Spanish sheep, goat products
Import restrictions introduced in 2022 are being withdrawn
CHINA – Chinese authorities have lifted restrictions on imports of sheep and goat products from Spain, ending a ban that had been in place since September 2022 following an outbreak of sheep and goat pox.
The decision was announced in Bulletin No. 176/2025 by the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, bringing closure to an embargo that Spanish producers say caused significant financial losses.
According to industry estimates, the ban disrupted exports of wool and hides, two main byproducts of sheep and goat farming, resulting in revenue losses of more than US$48 million.
China has become the primary destination for processing these materials in recent years, a trend linked to the decline of textile and tanning industries within the European Union.
This dependency has meant that Spanish producers have relied heavily on the Chinese market to secure value for these byproducts, which are seen as essential to maintaining the economic balance of extensive livestock systems.
The lifting of restrictions follows months of engagement between Spain’s sheep and goat sector, represented by INTEROVIC, and Spanish authorities working with their counterparts in China.
In June, Chinese inspectors reviewed biosecurity and disease control measures in Spain and issued a positive assessment of the steps taken to eradicate the outbreak.
While the decision clears the way for exports of wool and skins to resume, officials have noted that some technical requirements remain before shipments can begin again.
INTEROVIC has expressed confidence that these final steps will be completed quickly, allowing trade to return to pre-ban levels.
Industry representatives say the reopening also creates an opportunity to renew talks with China on the possible approval of sheep and goat meat exports.
China is the world’s largest importer of animal protein, and access to its market for meat would mark a significant development for Spanish livestock producers.
For Spain, the return of trade in wool and hides not only restores a major export channel but also supports a system of making full use of animals, which the sector views as key to sustaining rural economies.
Raúl Muñiz, president of INTEROVIC, said the reopening is expected to strengthen the sector’s position in international markets and provide long-term security for producers.
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