The European Union’s top trade envoy, Maroš Šefčovič, began two days of talks in Beijing on Thursday to address the bloc’s €360 billion ($410 billion) annual trade deficit with China, as political pressure mounts in Brussels to curb surging Chinese imports.
The European Parliament on Wednesday voted 454 to 86 to toughen its stance on China, calling for “economic reciprocity and a proportionate EU response if China does not open its markets.” Belgian lawmaker Hilde Vautmans, who led the resolution, said, “Europe has economic power, it’s time we used it.” The EU has already imposed measures on Chinese steel and e-commerce parcels, while France and Germany have pushed for broader action, including potential 30% tariffs on Chinese exports .
Chinese automakers now account for nearly 12% of new car sales in Europe, with hybrid models facing potential import caps as Brussels seeks to balance trade. Analysts and officials on both sides expect only limited progress from the talks, with EU Trade Commissioner Šefčovič arriving with a deadline for Beijing to deliver meaningful results .
The EU’s shift from dialogue to a firmer stance was underscored by the Parliament’s approval of a resolution urging the use of trade defense instruments. Diplomacy has taken a back seat as Brussels prioritizes pressure to address the deficit, which averages over €1 billion daily .
