EU Weighs Tougher Measures Against Cheap Chinese Imports

The European Union is preparing to take a tougher stance on China as it seeks to shield its industry from a surge of low-cost imports, according to internal European Commission proposals seen by Politico.

Brussels is considering stronger trade defense measures, including new investigations into Chinese imports in strategic sectors. Tariff quotas and other restrictions are also under discussion if imports are found to harm European companies. Similar measures have already been applied to products such as steel and ferro-alloys.

A new instrument targeting overcapacity among state-backed Chinese firms is also under review. EU officials argue that these companies distort competition by mass-producing low-cost goods, putting pressure on European industries. However, such measures could face challenges under World Trade Organisation rules.

Calls for a tougher approach have intensified as the EU’s trade deficit with China has widened to more than €359bn ($390bn). At the same time, European industries are facing increasing competition in sectors such as electric vehicles, clean technologies and chemicals.

Germany’s position will be decisive. Berlin has so far sought to avoid a direct trade confrontation with Beijing. By contrast, countries such as Spain favor a more cautious approach and maintaining close economic ties with China.

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