Europe is adopting a more stringent stance on trade with China, with accusations that Beijing is unfairly subsidizing its exports and flooding European markets with low-cost goods. This growing assertiveness reflects mounting concerns within European industries and governments that Chinese competition poses a significant risk to jobs and domestic manufacturing.
The dominance of China in global supply chains is also a source of increasing unease in Brussels. European businesses and policymakers are questioning the fairness of current trade practices and exploring potential responses to safeguard their interests. The situation raises questions about whether these accusations are valid and what measures Europe can take to address them, amid broader discussions about the potential for a new trade dispute between the two economic blocs.
The dialogue, which has been ongoing for over a year, involves significant stakeholders on both sides. A recent example of high-level engagement occurred during the China-EU Sixth High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue in Beijing on July 14, 2025, which included discussions between Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and EU Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera.