European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that securing a negotiated solution with China remains the EU’s paramount objective, stating, “All instruments remain on the table” until a satisfactory outcome is achieved. Speaking at a press conference in Beijing concluding the EU-China summit, von der Leyen acknowledged “very intensive technical and political contacts” are underway.
Von der Leyen highlighted a “growing imbalance” in EU-China trade data, attributing it chiefly to “increasing trade distortions and market access barriers.” While affirming Europe’s commitment to keeping its market open to Chinese goods based on “long-standing commitment to rules-based trade,” she stressed this openness “is not reciprocated by China.” The EU’s trade deficit with China has doubled over the last decade, exceeding 300 billion euros.
A key development from the summit was an agreement on an “updated mechanism” for Chinese exports of rare earth minerals, a major point of friction. Von der Leyen explained the revised supply chain support mechanism would “immediately verify and resolve” any bottlenecks arising from these critical exports.
Meanwhile, intensive negotiations continue between Brussels and Washington on tariffs. European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill stated contacts occur “on a daily basis,” sometimes by phone, sometimes in person. “We believe the outcome is within reach,” Gill asserted, emphasizing the Commission is working “with all its strength” for an agreement benefiting EU citizens, businesses, and consumers. He reiterated the EU’s readiness to activate “countermeasures” should talks fail, noting the situation remains fluid.
On the tariff issue, France and Italy presented a united front. French Economy Minister Eric Lombard, speaking alongside Italian Minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso in Paris, cited “very large convergence” between the two nations. Lombard stated France’s position is to “give negotiations a chance,” hoping for a conclusion within days. Should talks falter, he pledged EU member states would “find an agreement to be equal to the situation.” Minister Urso echoed this, demanding any deal must be “truly fair and sustainable for all.” Urso confirmed that if negotiations fail, joint decisions on “reaction measures” would follow, though he stressed “now is the time for negotiation.”
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