China, EU launch trade and investment consultation mechanism

China and the European Union have formally launched a new trade and investment consultation mechanism, marking a structured effort to manage economic tensions and deepen cooperation.

At the first meeting in Brussels, both sides agreed to establish four key workstreams covering trade and investment balancing, export controls, intellectual property rights, and WTO reform. A joint monitoring system will also be created to improve transparency by tracking trade flows and sharing data.

Officials discussed measures to improve market access and reduce trade imbalances, along with possible tariff and non-tariff approaches. They also agreed to continue dialogue on export controls, including critical materials such as rare earth elements, to support more stable global supply chains.

Both sides emphasized strengthening cooperation within the WTO framework and advancing reforms to improve its effectiveness and authority.

Credit – CGTN