EU trade negotiators are heading to China for a two‑day summit aimed at curbing the influx of cheap hybrid electric cars that has contributed to Beijing’s record £1 billion‑a‑day trade surplus with the bloc.
Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and his team will depart on Wednesday, with talks scheduled to begin the following day and run through late Friday. The meetings are expected to be intense, with negotiators working “up to the wire” to secure a breakthrough deal.
China’s trade surplus with the EU has reached a new high, with daily exports of hybrid vehicles playing a significant role. The EU has expressed growing concern that the low‑cost cars are undercutting European manufacturers.
In recent weeks, EU member states have hardened their demands for protection, signalling a shift in the mood of the negotiations. Officials say the talks could set the tone for future trade relations between the two economies.
- EU seeks to limit cheap hybrid electric car imports.
- Negotiations run from Thursday to Friday.
- Goal: address £1 bn‑a‑day trade surplus.
While a definitive outcome remains uncertain, the EU hopes the summit will lead to a more balanced trade relationship and safeguard European automotive interests.
<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>
