China links e-commerce to global markets

China on Monday unveiled new guidelines for the e-commerce sector to better align domestic development with international markets. The measures come shortly after a visit by a delegation of MEPs who highlighted problems in trade relations.

European Union representatives criticised in particular the increase in unsafe products from China on the European market and the limited access of European firms to China. Meanwhile, the EU has recently approved a reform of the customs system that tightens rules for e-commerce platforms and allows fines to be imposed for the sale of illegal or unsafe goods.

Under the new rules, the Chinese authorities want to strike a balance between promoting growth and regulating the sector. The plan also envisages the creation of pilot zones for cross-border e-commerce, the introduction of standards and the expansion of Chinese platforms abroad.

Beijing also wants to encourage imports of quality foreign products and create faster channels for them to enter the Chinese market. Chinese officials believe the MEPs’ visit can help stabilise China–EU relations.

(reuters, est)