Full Breakdown
China and EU Remain Deadlocked Over Medical Devices and PHEV Imports
By Drooid · · How we work
Trade Stalemate Between China and the European Union
Beijing and Brussels are currently at an impasse concerning two distinct trade issues: the public procurement of medical devices and the European Union’s proposed safeguards on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) manufactured in China. A senior source described the situation as a “deadlock,” indicating that no breakthrough has been reached despite ongoing high-level talks.
Recent Negotiations
During intensive consultations held in Beijing this week, Vice-Minister of Commerce Ling Ji—China’s deputy international trade representative—met with Ditte Juul Jorgensen, the European Commission’s director-general for trade and economic security. The two officials exchanged views over two days in preparation for a second round of trade talks, according to a statement released by China’s Ministry of Commerce. The discussions focused on aligning the EU’s import-safeguard plan for Chinese-made PHEVs with China’s trade interests, as well as addressing lingering concerns over the procurement of medical devices.
Official Positions and Responses
The European Commission has declined to comment publicly on the negotiations, while the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has not responded to requests for further comment. Both sides have signaled that “intensive consultations” will continue, suggesting that the deadlock may persist until a mutually acceptable framework is devised.
Potential Implications
The stalemate could affect supply chains for medical equipment used by European hospitals and delay the entry of Chinese PHEVs into EU markets, potentially influencing the region’s transition to greener transportation. Continued friction may also spill over into broader China-EU trade relations, prompting both parties to seek diplomatic avenues to resolve the impasse.