BRUSSELS: The European Union is considering new import restrictions on Chinese chemicals, furniture and machinery, with proposals possible in early 2027, people familiar with the plans told Bloomberg.
The European Commission is examining safeguards that could limit imports through quotas or tariffs. Officials may present the measures during the first quarter of next year.
Brussels wants to reduce its trade imbalance with Beijing while protecting European manufacturers from growing competition. The EU recorded a goods trade deficit of approximately €360 billion with China in 2025.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described the imbalance as unsustainable and called for stronger trade protections.
“Our industries have called for action,” she told reporters earlier this month, confirming plans for additional safeguards. The Commission is considering an approach similar to its recent agreement with Beijing on hybrid vehicles.
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That arrangement would limit Chinese hybrid car imports to 350,000 vehicles annually. Under World Trade Organisation rules, safeguard measures can restrict imports when rising shipments threaten domestic industries.
Authorities can impose volume limits or tariffs on goods exceeding specified quotas. EU officials are reviewing import data and discussing possible restrictions with member states.
The Commission could introduce the measures without securing China’s agreement. However, the final product list and proposed limits remain under discussion.
European manufacturers have complained about competition from lower-priced Chinese products, including goods that benefit from state subsidies. Industry representatives have linked rising imports to factory closures and job losses.
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China has warned against further trade pressure. Its Commerce Ministry said Europe should not underestimate Beijing’s determination or ability to defend its commercial interests.
Beijing has also opened an anti-dumping investigation into European chemical imports, including p-nitrotoluene. The proposed restrictions remain subject to further consultations between European officials, member states and China.
