EU Commissioner Šefčovič Meets Chinese Minister Amid Internal Divisions on Trade Tools (euobserver.com)

• EU-China trade talks on 29 June 2026 in Brussels as make-or-break event.
• EU's overcapacity and diversification instruments stalled by internal divisions.
• EU trade deficit with China grew to €360bn in 2025, expected €400bn in 2026.
• Germany's Merz criticizes Chinese subsidies and currency undervaluation.
• Wang Wentao to visit UK after Brussels; UK nationalizes Chinese-owned British Steel.

"EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič will meet Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Brussels on 29 June 2026, with proposed overcapacity and diversification instruments stalled by disagreements among EU leaders. China's overcapacity and low consumption are cited as unsustainable. The EU's trade deficit with China reached €360bn in 2025, expected to hit €400bn in 2026. Germany, with the largest deficit, acknowledged competitive distortions from Chinese subsidies and currency undervaluation. Divergent views among France, Austria, and the Netherlands complicate collective action."