China to ban import of U.S. chicken

China is considering a ban on the import of U.S. chicken, a move that may adversely affect the American chicken industry and increase trade tensions between the two nations, the Wall Street Journal reported.
China's stance, which could see U.S. chicken exporters lose about $370 million over the next six months, follows a U.S. embargo on Chinese poultry. China branded the prohibition unlawful and had placed it before a World Trade Organization expert panel for investigation.
President of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council James H. Sumner, reportedly acknowledged that several importers in China told him that the U.S. wouldn't receive any import permits from the country's ministry of commerce starting July 1.
"We have gone to great lengths over the past few years to explain to the Chinese that we are not behind this effort and that in fact we are opposed to any restrictive language," said Sumner. "We think the decision should be based on sound science, but apparently we have not convinced everyone because now we are falling victim to their actions."
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing, has reportedly been informed of the development. Last year China overtook Russia as the largest importer for U.S. chicken, according to the USAPEEC.