The European Union has called on China to respond responsibly to the US tariffs, emphasizing the need for a negotiated solution to avoid further escalation. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Chinese Premier Li Qiang discussed the trade tensions during a phone call, focusing on setting up a mechanism to track possible trade diversion caused by the tariffs.
The US has imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices, while China has retaliated with a tariff on US imports and vowed not to yield to US threats. The EU is concerned that China might redirect low-cost exports meant for the US to European markets.
Von der Leyen stressed the responsibility of Europe and China to support a strong, reformed trading system, free, fair, and founded on a level playing field. The trade tensions have sparked fears of a broader trade war, with potential implications for global markets and economies.
