EU faces internal split over trade stance with China

The European Union is struggling to reach a consensus on how to reshape its commercial relationship with China. Member states remain divided on whether to adopt tougher measures to address a €360 billion trade deficit and protect strategic sectors such as semiconductors and minerals.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the EU will be ready to act if China fails to deliver concrete changes by the October deadline, citing the need for new tools beyond the rarely‑used anti‑coercion instrument. Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič has set an October deadline for tangible progress after recent talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao.

While some leaders call for immediate safeguards and supply‑chain diversification, others urge caution and stress the importance of continued dialogue, leaving the EU without a clear, unified policy response.