The EU and China have agreed to pursue tariff reductions, improve market access and strengthen cooperation on export controls, intellectual property and regulatory standards following their second Trade and Investment Consultations. A third ministerial meeting is scheduled for March 2027.
The European Commission issued a joint statement following the second EU-China Trade and Investment Consultations, which aim to stabilise bilateral trade and promote a more balanced economic relationship.
The statement was published on 9 October 2026.
This follows after officials from the European Commission and China’s commerce ministry meeting in Beijing on 8 October 2026 to address trade friction between the two economic powers.
Wang Wentao, China’s Minister of Commerce, and Maroš Šefčovič, the EU’s Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, led the second meeting of the EU-China Trade and Investment Consultations (TIC).
The two delegations described the talks as pragmatic and productive. Both sides committed to resolving differences within World Trade Organisation rules and to stabilising their bilateral relationship. A third ministerial meeting is scheduled for March 2027, with a video conference planned for January 2027 to maintain momentum between formal sessions.
Trade balancing and tariff talks
The EU and China will continue exploring tariff reductions and eliminations on specific goods. A breakthrough emerged around hybrid vehicles, where the two sides reached an understanding that complies with WTO requirements.
The delegations also agreed to strengthen communication through existing trade monitoring and dialogue mechanisms. These channels will enhance mutual understanding on contentious issues and market access barriers.
Medical devices and agricultural products
Separate discussions advanced on medical devices, with China pledging to accelerate recognition of EU regional approval processes for eligible member states. The EU confirmed its commitment to increase imports of medical devices from China, planning a dedicated matchmaking event during the 9th China International Import Expo.
Both sides addressed agricultural trade restrictions. China and the EU agreed to exchange information on disease control methodologies and technologies, particularly for bluetongue disease affecting animal products from certain EU member states. Technical discussions will continue on lifting import restrictions related to this issue.
Regulatory alignment and industrial standards
The two sides committed to ongoing technical work on cosmetics and pharmaceutical regulations, aiming to reduce existing and emerging market access barriers. Computer reservation systems also remain on the agenda for continued exchanges.
The EU clarified that its official guidance on using EU funds for clean energy projects involving certain inverters is country-neutral. Further discussions between the delegations will address concerns on this matter.
Export controls and supply chain stability
China committed to maintaining fast-track export licenses for rare earths and permanent magnets to the EU. The EU pledged to work with member states to facilitate specific licenses to China in dual-use sectors.
Both sides strengthened commitments under the EU-China Export Control Dialogue. The delegations agreed to improve transparency in export control listings and delistings, including advance warning procedures. Discussions also addressed possible structural measures to streamline compliant dual-use exports between the regions.
Investment cooperation framework
The two sides agreed to explore how investment can generate greater economic benefits for both economies. Future cooperation will focus on identifying investment opportunities that support long-term bilateral growth.
Intellectual property enforcement
The EU and China reported progress on systemic intellectual property concerns but acknowledged more work remains necessary. Both committed to achieving specific milestones on IP protection, enforcement, and transparency. The EU-China Intellectual Property Working Group will monitor progress on these objectives.
WTO reform engagement
On WTO matters, the delegations agreed to strengthen bilateral communication on reform efforts openly and constructively. Both committed to engaging comprehensively in WTO reform discussions and advancing substantive progress on all related issues.
