The EU 301 instrument could risk weaponizing trade policy and disrupt China-EU and global trade.
On Wednesday, the China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (CCCEU) voiced concern over reports that some European Union member states are pushing for a new EU “301” trade instrument, warning that such a unilateral measure could raise questions over its compatibility with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.
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The proposed instrument, if introduced, could risk “weaponizing trade policy” and disrupt China-EU and global trade, while adding uncertainty to global industrial and supply chains.
The CCCEU said unilateral trade measures will not address structural challenges facing European industry, including high energy costs, insufficient investment and the need to strengthen innovation.
European industry has also experienced the negative impact of similar unilateral trade measures. International trade instruments should not become subject to a “race to the bottom,” nor should unilateral measures replace multilateral rules, the chamber said, calling for the WTO-based multilateral trading system to be upheld.
Rising powers often trigger conflict, and an explosion of Chinese exports is making a trade war with Europe look increasingly inevitable. Analysts now debate not whether the continent will raise protective barriers, but how swiftly and severely it will act.
Economic pressure is… pic.twitter.com/YxV7WYI1ga
— Spotlight on China (@spotlightoncn) June 15, 2026
The CCCEU said China and the EU are maintaining intensive communication under their Trade and Investment Consultation mechanism and called on European stakeholders to use existing dialogue channels to address differences and concerns.
It also urged the EU and its member states to maintain a fair, equitable, transparent and predictable business environment and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of companies, including Chinese firms.
The chamber said it stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with European stakeholders and contribute to an open and stable business environment and China-EU economic and trade cooperation.
The statement came amid reports that some EU member states are urging the European Commission to accelerate work on an instrument modeled on Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act, which allows Washington to investigate and respond to what it considers unfair foreign trade practices.
teleSUR/ JF
Source: Xinhua
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