World Economy

EU Prepares Stricter Trade Controls Targeting Chinese Imports

The European Union is developing enhanced trade enforcement mechanisms that could restrict or entirely block market access for selected countries and companies, according to officials familiar with the initiative. The move follows a record $35 billion trade surplus in EU-China commerce recorded in September, intensifying pressure on Brussels to address the widening deficit. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Sefčovič met with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Beijing to discuss the standoff, signaling diplomatic engagement alongside policy shifts. The new powers would grant EU regulators greater authority to police imports and manage market entry. Implementation details remain under review. Officials say the measures aim to protect European industries while maintaining trade relationships. The proposal marks an escalation in the bloc's approach to managing imbalances with Beijing.