China Threatens Countermeasures Over EU Industrial and Security Rules

The Government of China has threatened to implement countermeasures against the European Union following a series of disputes over sanctions and proposed industrial legislation. The tension escalated in late April 2026, as Beijing condemned the EU's 20th sanctions package against Russia for including Chinese companies accused of supplying high-tech goods to Russia's military-industrial complex.

Simultaneously, China's Ministry of Commerce formally objected to the Industrial Accelerator Act, also known as the Made in Europe plan. Beijing argues the act constitutes systemic discrimination and violates World Trade Organization principles by requiring minimum thresholds of EU-made parts for companies in strategic sectors, such as electric vehicles and green tech, to access public funds. The ministry specifically highlighted restrictive requirements on technology transfer and exclusionary origin clauses in public procurement.

By April 30, China expanded its demands to include the removal of EU cybersecurity rules that define high-risk suppliers and countries posing security concerns. Beijing is currently utilizing its embassies and formal letters to the European Commission to demand substantial changes to these rules, asserting that the EU's shift toward protectionism harms bilateral trade and cooperation.