EU Plans 2027 Import Curbs on Chinese Goods

The European Commission plans to implement safeguard measures in the first quarter of 2027 to restrict imports of Chinese chemicals, furniture, and machinery. These measures, which may include tariffs or import caps, aim to reduce a trade deficit with China that reached 360 billion euros last year.

Commission officials intend to model these restrictions on a recent agreement that caps hybrid vehicle imports at 350,000 cars annually to minimize the risk of Chinese retaliation. While the EU maintains the ability to act unilaterally, the specific tools and sectors remain subject to ongoing discussions with member states and Beijing.

In response, the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China warned that the EU should not underestimate China's determination to protect its own interests. The European Commission is also developing new tools to diversify supplies and react to aggressive trade actions, with formal proposals expected by mid-December.