China has initiated a new round of trade and investment discussions with the European Union (EU), signaling a renewed effort to stabilize economic relations amid global supply chain shifts and rising geopolitical tensions.
According to Reuters (Nov. 5, 2025), Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis in Beijing to discuss enhanced market access, technology cooperation, and green investment. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining “open and fair trade” while addressing concerns over tariffs and regulatory barriers.
BBC News reported that the talks come as both regions face economic headwinds — with Europe seeking to diversify its import sources and China aiming to attract foreign investment amid slower domestic growth. The EU has recently increased scrutiny of Chinese electric vehicles and solar panels, prompting Beijing to call for “non-discriminatory treatment” of its companies.
In a statement, Premier Li said, “China and the EU remain vital partners in global economic stability. Our cooperation should be guided by mutual benefit, dialogue, and openness.”
Euronews highlighted that discussions also touched on climate finance, digital economy collaboration, and the possibility of reviving the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI), which has been stalled since 2021.
The Financial Times noted that European officials are pressing China to reduce industrial subsidies and ensure transparency in procurement policies, while Chinese negotiators urged the EU to “avoid politicizing trade relations.”
Observers say the dialogue marks a cautious step toward rebuilding trust between two of the world’s largest trading partners, whose annual bilateral trade exceeded $850 billion in 2024.
Sources
Reuters — “China, EU Hold Trade Talks to Boost Investment and Market Access,” Nov. 5, 2025
BBC News — “China Seeks Stronger Economic Ties with Europe Amid Global Slowdown,” Nov. 5, 2025
Euronews — “EU and China Revisit Stalled Investment Agreement in Beijing Talks,” Nov. 5, 2025
Financial Times — “Beijing, Brussels Seek Common Ground on Trade and Green Tech,” Nov. 5, 2025
