STORY
China has accused the European Union of using trade data selectively to justify tougher import restrictions on Chinese goods. The criticism followed comments from EU industry commissioner Stéphane Séjourné suggesting that Brussels could make wider use of quotas and tariffs to protect European industrial sectors.
Beijing said the EU was focusing too narrowly on the goods trade deficit while ignoring wider services and investment flows. Chinese officials described the proposed approach as protectionist and warned that China could respond if Brussels proceeds with broader measures affecting sectors such as chemicals, metals and clean technology.
The exchange reflects growing pressure inside the EU for stronger trade defence instruments as manufacturers complain about subsidised Chinese competition. France, Italy and Spain have been among those pressing for a tougher line, while Brussels is trying to balance industrial protection with the risk of escalating trade tensions with Beijing.