In a move that could ease global trade tensions, China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao met with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic in Paris on June 3. The two leaders engaged in focused and candid discussions on pressing trade issues between China and the European Union (EU).
The talks addressed the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and China’s anti-dumping investigation into brandy originating from the EU. Both sides emphasized the importance of resolving these disputes in a manner that complies with their respective legal frameworks and World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.
On the electric vehicle issue, Wang and Sefcovic made significant progress toward a mutually acceptable solution. They instructed their teams to intensify efforts to finalize price commitment negotiations, which are now in their final stages. The EU proposed exploring new technical avenues, and China agreed to assess their feasibility from both legal and technical perspectives.
Regarding the brandy case, the discussions were described as friendly and candid. French enterprises and relevant associations have submitted price commitment applications to China, reaching an agreement on core terms. China is reviewing these commitments and expects to issue a final ruling before July 5 if the review process is successful.
Wang clarified China’s export control policies, emphasizing that implementing such controls on rare earths and other items is a common international practice. China expressed its willingness to establish a green channel for eligible applications to expedite the approval process and encouraged ongoing communication between both sides.
Both China and the EU have demonstrated sincerity in addressing trade differences through dialogue and consultation. Wang expressed hope that the EU will take effective measures to facilitate compliant trade of high-tech products with China, paving the way for expanded cooperation in the future.
