China and the European Union have agreed to enhance trade cooperation and address economic differences, following high-level consultations in Beijing. This development comes after Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič co-chaired the second meeting of the China-EU trade and investment consultation mechanism. The discussions aimed to resolve disputes constructively and maintain stable economic relations between the two regions.
Key issues addressed during the meeting included trade imbalances, export controls, intellectual property rights, and electric vehicle trade. Both sides emphasized the importance of improving market access and strengthening trade monitoring. Moreover, they explored potential tariff reductions on certain goods within World Trade Organization rules and discussed regulatory concerns impacting sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and agricultural products.
The electric vehicle trade was a notable focus, with discussions on price undertakings related to the EU’s anti-subsidy case involving Chinese electric vehicles. Further talks were agreed upon to address export control issues, facilitate compliant trade, and maintain stable global supply chains.
In addition to these economic matters, China and the EU expressed mutual interest in expanding cooperation in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, digital services, and green technology. Both parties underscored the potential for increased mutual investment and called for fair, transparent, and predictable business environments.
The consultations concluded with a commitment to implement the agreed outcomes and continue negotiations. Plans were made for a ministerial-level video meeting in January 2027, followed by the third trade and investment consultation meeting in March 2027, signaling ongoing dialogue and cooperation efforts between China and the EU.