Following high-level trade and investment consultations in Beijing, China and the European Union have agreed to enhance their trade cooperation and address economic tensions through ongoing dialogue. The discussions, co-chaired by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič, underscored the importance of resolving disputes constructively and maintaining stable economic relations.
The second meeting of the China-EU trade and investment consultation mechanism tackled a range of topics, including trade imbalances, export controls, intellectual property rights, and the reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Both parties committed to improving market access, strengthening trade monitoring, and exploring potential tariff reductions on certain goods within the framework of WTO rules.
Significant attention was given to the electric vehicle sector, with discussions focusing on price undertakings related to the EU’s anti-subsidy case involving Chinese electric vehicles. The two sides also agreed to continue addressing export control concerns and to facilitate compliant trade, which is crucial for maintaining stable global supply chains.
The consultations also highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation in sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, digital services, and green technology. China and the EU expressed a mutual interest in increasing investment and emphasized the need for fair, transparent, and predictable business environments for companies operating in each other’s markets.
In the realms of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and agricultural products, regulatory concerns were discussed, with an aim to resolve these issues to facilitate smoother trade interactions. The commitment to implement the agreed outcomes and continue negotiations was reaffirmed, setting the stage for a ministerial-level video meeting in January 2027, followed by the third trade and investment consultation meeting in March 2027.