China-EU trade consultations take a more problem-oriented approach

The second meeting of the China-EU trade and investment consultation mechanism, held in Beijing on October 8-9, concluded with a list of deliverables and understandings, covering automotive trade, market access, export controls and other issues. At a time of growing trade tensions, the meeting was more than an opportunity for dialogue. It suggested a shift toward a more problem-oriented approach to managing China-EU economic relations: Identifying specific disputes, working through possible solutions and setting out a framework for further negotiations.