EU to propose import curbs on other Chinese sectors, says EU chief
The Commission will target chemicals and industrial machinery as EU leaders back faster tools to curb a €360 billion trade deficit with China.
- On Friday, October 16, 2026, European Union leaders instructed the European Commission to urgently draft new trade defense instruments targeting Chinese imports of chemicals and industrial machinery.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the €360 billion trade deficit with China as 'unsustainable,' prompting the bloc to move beyond dialogue toward structural import restrictions.
- Proposals include a 'killer switch' mechanism enabling the Commission to impose quotas and tariffs immediately, shielding sectors from Chinese export surges without requiring member-state approval.
- European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič called the hybrid car deal a 'very good result' but cautioned it was only a first step, with formal safeguard proposals expected in December.
- Officials suggest the Commission likely cannot utilize these new trade powers until the second half of 2027, as legislation will require time to enact following ministerial consultations in early 2027.
111 Articles
111 Articles
The European Union (EU) will create a tool that would allow it to quickly restrict access to the bloc's market in the event of a trade war, European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday.
EU prepares new import restrictions from China beyond current agreements The European Commission will propose additional restrictions on imports from China due to trade imbalances<p>. New tools to protect the market </p>EU.
The European Commission will propose restrictions on imports from China that go beyond the safeguard measures agreed with Beijing to halve imports of Chinese hybrid cars, said on Friday (16) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Read also: China and the European Union reach agreement on EU hybrid vehicles promises to maintain sanctions against Russia after changing US stance Von der Leyen said in a collective interview after a Euro…
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