China and EU Engage in Key Paris Talks to Address Urgent Trade Challenges
China and the EU hold high-level talks in Paris to address trade disputes over EV subsidies, anti-dumping investigations, and export controls.
In a significant development for China-EU trade relations, China's Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic met in Paris on June 3 to address several pressing trade issues currently affecting the two economies. Their discussions covered the European Union's anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), China's anti-dumping probe into EU-origin brandy, and export control policies, according to a spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce.
The meeting was characterized by focused, candid, and in-depth exchanges on these urgent matters. Both sides agreed on the need to intensify economic and trade preparations for a busy agenda of bilateral engagements scheduled for the remainder of the year. The spokesperson highlighted that such dialogue is instrumental in fostering understanding and opening pathways to resolve disputes.
A particular focus was placed on the ongoing EV case, described by the ministry as a "significant step in the right direction" towards its resolution. Negotiations regarding price commitments for Chinese EVs imported into the EU have reportedly reached their final phase. However, both delegations acknowledged that additional efforts are necessary to reach a mutually satisfactory conclusion. The EU also raised the prospect of exploring new technical approaches, and China has committed to evaluating their feasibility from both legal and technical standpoints.
Both parties instructed their respective teams to redouble efforts to craft solutions compatible with their legal frameworks and World Trade Organization rules. The emphasis remains on settling trade disagreements through proper and constructive means, reflecting a shared desire to avoid escalation and maintain robust economic ties.
On the matter of China's anti-dumping investigation into EU brandy, discussions were described as "friendly and candid." French companies and industry associations have submitted price commitment applications to the Chinese authorities and reached consensus with Chinese investigators on the core terms of these commitments. China is now reviewing the full text of these proposals, with a final ruling expected before July 5 should the review process conclude successfully.
Demonstrating a willingness to resolve disputes through dialogue, China reiterated its hope that the EU will reciprocate by addressing China's concerns and helping to lay the groundwork for expanded cooperation. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of both sides working together to resolve outstanding issues, highlighting China's sincerity and readiness to find practical solutions.
Minister Wang clarified China's export control policies during the talks. He stressed that imposing export controls on rare earths and other sensitive items is in line with international norms. Further, China signaled its openness to facilitate trade by establishing a streamlined approval channel for eligible applicants and pledged to enhance communication to ensure timely processing of high-tech trade applications.
The minister concluded by expressing hope that the EU would join China in implementing measures that promote, guarantee, and facilitate compliant high-tech trade. Both sides appear committed to maintaining dialogue, with instructions to relevant teams to keep the lines of communication open as they work towards more stable and mutually beneficial economic relations.
