Are the EU and China heading for a trade war? 5 things to know

European leaders consider new trade defense and industrial policy tools

The EU and China have agreed to start a ministerial dialogue addressing trade imbalances and export controls imposed by China, with Brussels shooting for "tangible results." (Nikkei montage/Source photos by Reuters and Getty Images)

CLEMENT NGU

July 2, 2026 11:11 JST

Updated on July 2, 2026 14:24 JST

BRUSSELS -- Tensions between the European Union and China are rising over Beijing's widening trade surplus with the bloc, as EU officials allege unfair trade practices and challenges in market access, calling the relationship structurally imbalanced and unsustainable.