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China Warns EU on Trade: Retaliation Threat Issued
30 May
Summary
- China warns EU against further trade restrictions and protectionism.
- Beijing threatens decisive retaliation if discriminatory measures are imposed.
- EU notes current trade relations with China are unsustainable.
China has cautioned the European Union against implementing additional trade restrictions, signaling a firm response to any measures deemed discriminatory. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce emphasized on Saturday the importance of free trade and fair competition, urging Brussels to reject protectionism.
Beijing stated that if the EU introduces unilateral or discriminatory trade instruments, China would "strike back decisively" and take effective measures to safeguard its interests. This warning emerged after the European Commission held internal trade policy discussions concerning EU-China relations.
While no definitive decisions were made at the commission's meeting, it was noted that the current trade and investment relationship with China is "not sustainable." This assessment stems from increasing links between economic factors and security concerns, prompting a call for a more robust EU response.
Despite strained relations, including EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and Chinese export controls on raw materials, communication channels remain open. Discussions are ongoing regarding the establishment of a consultation mechanism for trade and investment between the two sides.
