China vows response if EU introduces moves targeting Chinese trade

China has threatened to take "resolute action" to protect its industries if the European Union proceeds with restrictions against Chinese companies or products, according to the country's commerce ministry. This warning comes in the wake of a reported draft document compiled by some EU member states, which proposes a tool aimed at addressing unfair trade practices and imposing more stringent measures against China.

The ministry described the proposed tool as a "typical protectionist and unilateralist measure" that would disrupt the stability of China-EU trade relations. The ministry expressed concern that if the European Union engages in negotiations with China while simultaneously pressuring the nation, it would undermine mutual trust and disrupt the consultation process.

China could respond with a "strong policy toolbox," which may include anti-discrimination investigations, security probes into industrial and supply chains, and an examination of the impact of foreign subsidies, according to a Chinese observer quoted in the state-backed newspaper Global Times. This warning follows an article by Noah Barkin, Rhodium Group's senior adviser on Europe-China ties, who stated that Germany and France are finalizing a joint paper this week to push the European Commission to expedite the development of an instrument similar to the United States' Section 301 unfair trade practices provision, in order to deter China within the EU market.