FILE PHOTO: China's foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning attends a press conference in Beijing, China July 26, 2023. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang/File PhotoSource: X06979
China has criticised the European Union's trade policies, describing them as a "lose-lose" approach in response to escalating tariff disputes between the two sides.
The remarks from China's foreign ministry came after European Council President Charles Michel urged Beijing to adjust its behaviour to resolve the ongoing row.
The conflict centres on tariffs and accusations of unfair subsidies, with both sides imposing penalties on each other's imports.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning warned that additional tariffs would hurt not only the EU but also Chinese investment in Europe and global supply chains. She urged the EU to pursue solutions through dialogue rather than escalating the conflict.
"The EU should clearly recognise that imposing additional tariffs will not solve any problems," she stated, emphasising the need for cooperation to avoid further disruption to trade relations.
“We urge the EU to take concrete actions and work together with China to seek solutions through discussions, in order to avoid further escalation of trade friction," she added.
The tensions come amid concerns over the impact of protectionist policies on industries and economic ties between China and the EU.