EU trade officials are set to travel to China for high-stakes negotiations aimed at addressing Beijing’s massive trade surplus with Europe, particularly focusing on curbing exports of affordable hybrid electric vehicles. With tensions rising, EU member states have reportedly intensified demands for stronger safeguards against Chinese imports, signaling a shift in the tone of discussions. Talks are expected to run through the weekend, with negotiators working to finalize a deal before time expires. The push comes as Europe seeks to balance economic ties with China while protecting its domestic industries.
Mood in trade talks said to have changed as EU member states harden demands for protection against Chinese importsEU trade negotiators are heading to China for two days of crunch talks aimed at sealing a breakthrough deal tackling Beijing’s record £1bn-a-day trade surplus by curbing its exports of cheap hybrid electric cars into Europe.Trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and his team fly out on Wednesday and will be negotiating up to the wire in talks scheduled to start the following day and continue late into Friday. Continue reading...
