China and EU Seek Trade Reset Amid Tariff Tensions

High-level talks begin as both sides aim to reduce friction in automotive and tech sectors

Delegations from China and the European Union met this week in Brussels to initiate a dialogue aimed at resetting strained trade relations. The talks come amid mounting tensions over EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and Beijing’s restrictions on European agricultural imports.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of “a rules-based trading order,” while China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng called for “mutual understanding and pragmatic cooperation.”

Analysts say that while a breakthrough is unlikely in the short term, both sides are under pressure to avoid further escalation that could damage supply chains and inflation recovery.