During the call, von der Leyen emphasized the crucial
need for stability and predictability in the global economy. She highlighted the shared responsibility of Europe and China, as two of the world's largest markets, to support a robust, reformed trading system that is free, fair, and based on a level playing field.
The United States has imposed tariffs exceeding 100% on Chinese imports, prompting China to retaliate with 34% tariffs on U.S. goods. In response to these developments, von der Leyen underscored the importance of preventing further escalation and sought a negotiated resolution to the ongoing trade disputes.
In late March, European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič visited Beijing to renew diplomatic ties and address the deteriorating trade relations between the EU and China. Building on these discussions, von der Leyen and Li explored the establishment of a mechanism to monitor potential trade diversions resulting from the U.S. tariffs, aiming to mitigate any adverse impacts on the European market.
To further address concerns about market overcapacity and the redirection of goods, von der Leyen announced the creation of an "Import Surveillance Task Force." This initiative seeks to collaborate with industry stakeholders to gather necessary evidence and implement appropriate policy measures.
euronews
The EU-China trade relationship was also a focal point during the recent meeting of EU trade ministers in Luxembourg. An EU diplomat clarified that while the EU is engaging with China, it does not intend to compromise its relations with the United States, emphasizing that the goal is not to deteriorate transatlantic ties.
Despite the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs on EU imports, the European Union remains committed to seeking a negotiated solution with the United States, aiming to resolve trade disputes amicably and maintain global economic stability.
