China Rejects American Imports

An interesting story has emerged while Mattel initiates yet another round of recalls on Chinese made toys covered in lead paint. In July and September, China rejected over 40 tons of pork imported from Canada and the United states. Upon inspection, the meat was found to contain traces of the growth hormone ractopamine. The US and Canada are two of 24 countries that do not ban the hormone's use in meat produced for human consumption.

While the non-approval of the hormone appears to have more to do with protecting Chinese pig farmers than with any health concerns (the hormone was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1999), I wonder if this was in any way a chance for Beijing to hit back at criticisms aimed at it's recent export troubles.