EU takes firmer stance on China’s trade practices as Beijing talks begin
Germany and France this week called on the EU to adopt stronger tools to defend European sectors that have fallen prey to surging Chinese imports.
The European Union is adopting a more assertive stance towards China as it prepares for two days of high-stakes negotiations in Beijing to prevent a potentially economically damaging trade conflict. The EU's chief negotiator, Maros Sefcovic, is scheduled to meet with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao to tackle a trade deficit that now stands at over $1 billion per day.
This meeting comes as the EU considers implementing safeguard measures that could restrict the import of Chinese hybrid vehicles, a move that could be perceived as a provocation.
Germany and France have urged the EU to adopt more robust measures, such as the ability to cut China off from the EU's vast single market, in order to safeguard European industries that have been adversely affected by a surge in Chinese imports. However, the EU is keen to temper its actions to avoid triggering a retaliatory response from Beijing.
Despite the current subscription limitations on commenting, the EU is navigating a delicate balance to address its trade grievances with China while minimizing the risk of escalating tensions.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
