EU-China Trade Tensions Escalate Over Import Quotas

The European Union is considering implementing stricter import quotas and tariffs on Chinese goods as a means to protect vulnerable industries. This move follows comments from EU industry chief Stephane Sejourne, who labeled the influx of Chinese imports as an 'existential' threat to European sectors such as chemicals, metals, and clean technology.

China has fired back, accusing the EU of selectively using trade data to justify its claims of imbalances. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that no party is compelled to trade with China and lamented the potential for protectionist policies.

Sejourne will present his arguments during upcoming EU commissioner talks. As Europe faces a growing goods trade deficit with China, member countries like France, Italy, and Spain are urging Brussels to strengthen measures against cheap imports and safeguard their economies.

(With inputs from agencies.)