AI-generated summary
The EU and China are engaged in tense trade negotiations due to a significant trade imbalance, with the EU importing significantly more from China than it exports. Beijing rejects criticism of overcapacity and trade surpluses as protectionist.
Ahead of EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic's trip to China, the German Chamber of Commerce in China is promoting dialogue and targeted measures in the trade dispute. “It is crucial that China is considered as a partner in the dialogues in addition to existing challenges,” explained Oliver Oehms, executive board member of the chamber in North China, according to a statement.
The EU should tailor its measures to the problems of individual sectors. “We therefore advocate EU initiatives that weigh up the benefits and risks and rely on targeted, sector-specific instruments instead of issuing blanket tariffs or general requirements,” said Oehms.
At the same time, he pointed out the advantages of cooperation: German companies are increasingly developing knowledge in China, which also benefits German corporate headquarters and can strengthen their competitiveness. Economic policy should promote this exchange where it benefits both sides.
Many companies expect the consequences of an escalation
On the occasion of the planned trip, the chamber published the results of this year's business climate survey in advance. Companies should assess how badly their business would be affected if the ongoing trade negotiations between the EU and China do not produce tangible results and a situation comparable to a trade conflict arises. In this case, 33 percent expect significant and 47 percent expect moderate effects on their China business. Overall, 80 percent expect this to have consequences. 14 percent expect no influence.
Trade talks planned in Beijing
Sefcovic is expected in Beijing on Thursday and Friday for talks with China's Trade Minister Wang Wentao. The EU is pushing to reduce the imbalance in trade with China. It buys significantly more goods from the People's Republic than it sells there. Beijing rejects criticism of its trade surpluses and overcapacity as protectionist.
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
The talks between Sefcovic and Wang Wentao will not lead to an immediate agreement, but will first agree on further negotiations.
Likely · Within days

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