In April 2025, China launched a pilot program allowing the use of imported calculus bovis in the production of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), under strict conditions. This initiative aims to address the shortage of this essential raw material while ensuring health and safety standards. Imports are permitted only from countries free of diseases such as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and must comply with China’s quarantine and pharmaceutical quality regulations.
Strengthened Trade Agreement Between Argentina and China
Against this backdrop, Argentina and China signed a memorandum of understanding concerning the export of bovine gallstones. The agreement stipulates that the stones must come from cattle raised in Argentina and meet China’s sanitary requirements. This collaboration is part of a broader series of agreements aimed at facilitating Argentine agricultural exports to China, including dried plums, nuts, and pork offal.
Market Outlook and Implications
China’s opening to Argentine calculus bovis may have several key repercussions:
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Price Stabilization: Increased supply could ease pressure on current high market prices.
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Opportunities for Argentine Producers: Farmers and slaughterhouses in Argentina could benefit from new income streams by monetizing these previously overlooked by-products.
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Stronger Bilateral Relations: The agreement reflects both countries’ commitment to deepening economic cooperation, particularly in the agri-food sector.
In summary, China’s lifting of import restrictions and its agreement with Argentina on calculus bovis illustrate a shifting commercial landscape, where animal by-products are gaining strategic value on the global market.